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SELECTIONS  FROM  THE  DIARIES  OF 
WILLIAM  APPLETON 


<JZrzrrri-  -tv  £/?A^Ca*&-7~n,fi.Jv 


Selections  from  the  Diaries  of 

tVilliatn  *Appleton 

1786-1862 

S3 


Boston 

Privately  Printed 


1922 


COPYRIGHT,  1922,  BY  SUSAN  M.  LORING 


A3 


D.  B.  UPDIKE  •  THE  MERRYMOUNT  PRESS  •  BOSTON 


BOSTON  COLLEGE  LIBRARY 

CHESTNUT  HIU.   MA' 


BOSTON  COLLIE  LIBRAE  j 

6HESTMUT  WWr,.  ftf  fr  ^1  <■'  ? 


MAR  2      1990 


NOTE 

OUR  ancestor  William  Appleton  was  a  successful  and 
well-known  merchant  of  Boston.  It  seems  to  me  worth  while 
to  try  to  picture  him  to  his  descendants  by  means  of  the  diaries 
which  he  kept  for  many  years. 

I  have  tried  to  bring  out  the  most  salient  and  interesting  parts 
of  his  life  by  selections  from  these  diaries,  but  I  find  it  impossible 
to  present  him  to  others  as  I  myself  have  come  to  know  him  through 
them. 

'This  book  tells  of  his  visits  to  his  mother,  of  his  visiting  his 
sick  children  and  friends  who  are  sick,  and  of  his  suffering 
with  them,  and  of  his  kindness  to  the  relatives  of  his  parents 
and  to  those  of  his  wife;  but  his  diaries  tell  of  such  loving  deeds 
over  and  over  again. 

The  book  tells  of  his  dinner  parties,  and  of  his  many  friends 
who  came  to  the  house;  but  his  diaries  tell  of  his  friends  coming 
and  going  all  the  time,  and  much  stress  is  laid  on  the  love  he  has 
for  his  friends. 

The  book  tells  of  his  devotion  to  the  Church  services,  to  those  of 
his  own  particular  church,  and  to  its  ministers,  thus  showing  his 
deep  appreciation  of  the  Spiritual  Life  that  they  stood  for;  of  his 
feelings  of  sinfulness  and  the  searchings  of  his  own  heart;  but  his 
diaries  tell  of  these  acts  and  these  thoughts  over  and  over  again. 

Susan  M.  Loring 

A  Granddaughter 
May,  1922 


CONTENTS 

PAGE 
EARLY    LIFE,  1786-1832  3 

WINTER  IN  SICILY,  1816-1817  8 

DIARY  JOTTINGS,  1818-1836  31 

THE  DIARY  OF  1837-1862  52 


ILLUSTRATIONS 

William  Appleton,from  a  photograph  Frontispiece 

House  at  34.  Beacon  Street  facing  page     6 

William  Appleton 

from  a  miniature  owned  by  Mrs.  G.  von  L.  Meyer  3 1 

House  at  Brook  line  65 

William  Appleton,  from  a  portrait  painted  by  Healy  133 

Trustees  of  Humane  Society,  l8j8  209 


SELECTIONS  FROM  THE  DIARIES 


EARLY  LIFE:  1786-1832 

1832 

JANUARY.  I  regret  much  having  given  up  the  plan 
of  keeping  a  memorandum  of  the  passing  events 
daily.  It  is  possible  some  of  my  family  may  be  inter- 
ested in  knowing  the  following  facts.  I  was  born  in  the 
North  Parish  of  Brookfield  in  the  year  1786,  November 
16th.  My  Father,  the  Revd  Joseph  Appleton,  died  in 
July,  1795,1  leaving  my  Mother  (formerly  Mary  Hook),  a 
most  energetic  and  excellent  Woman,  celebrated  for  wit 
and  beauty,  the  latter  lasted  to  old  age,  with  Two  sons  and 
Three  daughters  and  a  property  worth  about  four  Thou- 
sand five  hundred  dollars,  besides  my  mother's  property, 
worth  about  the  same.  My  mother  sold  the  effects  left  by 
my  father  and  removed  to  Hawke,  Kingston,  her  native 
place,  near  Exeter,  N.  H.,  where  she  had  an  estate  in- 
herited from2  her  father,  worth  about  Three  Thousand 
dollars.  In  the  year  1798  she  Married  Maj.  Daniel  Gould 
of  Lyndborough,  N.  H.,  to  which  place  We  (the  children) 
removed  with  her.  My  brother  Phineas  soon  went  into  a 
Store,  and  I  was  sent  to  School  at  New  Ipswich  and  After- 
wards to  Francestown;  in  1800  to  Tyngsboro;  the  follow- 
ing year  to  Temple;  I  resided  with  Artemas  Wheeler  till 

1  Aged  44,  of  typhus  fever,  called  "Spotted  fever,"  which  he  caught  while  min- 
istering to  his  people  in  their  great  need  during  an  epidemic  in  the  town,  caused 
by  the  importation  of  infected  rags  used  for  manufacturing  purposes.  He  was  a 
graduate  of  Brown  University. 

*  Or  given  by. 


4  William  Appleton  [1832 

about  nineteen  to  twenty  years  Old.  I  went  into  business 
in  Temple  with  the  property  I  inherited,  amounting  to 
about  seven  hundred  dollars  and  two  hundred  I  drew  in 
a  Lottery.  At  the  end  of  the  year  I  sold  my  Stock,  having 
made  about  eight  hundred  dollars.  Soon  after,  I  came  to 
Boston  and  for  a  time  resided  with  How  &  Spear;  they 
kept  a  West  India  Goods  store.  I  went  into  business  in 
1807  with  N.  Giddings;  we  kept  at  the  Corner  of  India  and 
Central  Street,  the  only  Store  occupied  in  the  Street;  our 
business  was  the  buying  and  selling  of  West  India  goods 
and  Crockery  ware.  I  continued  with  him  in  business  till 
the  autumn  of  1809.  Then  considering  myself  worth  about 
four  thousand  dollars  Bought  the  Ship  "  Triumphant "  at 
Salem,  for  five  Thousand  dollars,  with  Gassett,  Upham  & 
Co.,  and  went  in  her  to  Fayal,  where  I  had  her  put  under 
Portuguese  Colours,  and  she  departed  for  Liverpool.  I  took 
passage  in  Mr.  Heard's  Ship  with  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Bowdoin. 
On  our  arrival  in  the  Channel,  the  wind  being  adverse,  we 
landed  at  Kinsale;  thence  we  went  to  Cork  &  Dublin,  then 
to  Holyhead  &  Liverpool.  On  my  arrival  I  found  my  Ship 
had  been  captured  by  a  French  Privateer;  but  some  two 
weeks  after  that,  she  was  retaken  and  brought  to  Plymouth, 
where  I  went  to  take  charge  of  my  property.  I  remained 
in  England  till  July  when  I  embarked  in  the  brig  "  Eliza," 
Capt.  Gardner,  with  about  ten  thousand  pounds  of  Goods, 
for  account  of  myself  &  Parker,  Appleton  &  Co.  These 
goods  and  another  importation  I  sold,  and  at  the  close  of 
the  year  1811  found  myself  worth  about  ten  thousand  dol- 
lars. I  went  from  Philadelphia  to  North  Carolina,  where  I 


1832]  Early  Life  5 

loaded  two  vessels  with  Naval  Stores  for  England;  from 
there  I  went  to  Charleston  &  then  in  the  Ship  "Ceres,"  Capt. 
Webber,  I  went  to  Liverpool,  where  I  found  an  embargo 
was  laid  in  the  United  States,  which  was  considered  pre- 
paratory to  war  with  England.  In  June,  1812, 1  was  in  the 
House  of  Commons  attending  the  debates,  when  it  was 
announced  that  orders  in  Council  which  related  to  Ameri- 
can Ships  would  be  modified  or  repealed,  which  was  sup- 
posed to  be  the  cause  of  difficulty  between  the  two  gov- 
ernments. I  at  once  commenced  the  purchasing  of  goods, 
and  within  One  Month  had  thirty  thousand  pounds  of 
goods  on  the  way  or  in  preparation  for  the  United  States, 
when  we  were  informed  that  War  had  actually  been  de- 
clared by  the  Government  of  the  United  States.  This  caused 
me  much  trouble  &  anxiety.  In  August  I  embarked  for 
Boston  in  the  Ship  "  Roxanna."  When  I  got  to  Boston  I 
found  much  distress  and  anxiety  caused  by  the  War.  The 
most  of  the  remainder  of  this  year  and  a  part  of  1813  I 
passed  in  Philadelphia  &  Baltimore.  When  I  had  closed 
up  my  importations  and  settled  with  N.  W.  &  C.  H.  Ap- 
ple ton,  I  thought  myself  worth  sixty  Thousand  dollars.  I 
did  not  attend  to  any  business  of  importance  during  the 
war  till  the  Autumn  of  1814.  I  engaged  in  a  Matrimonial 
Speculation,  the  whole  result  of  which  is  not  ascertained. 
In  January,  1815,  I  was  married.1  Soon  after,  Peace  was 
made  between  this  Country  and  Great  Britain,  which 
caused  universal  joy.  In  the  Spring  of  1815  I  laid  plans 

1  Jan.  9,  1 8 1 5,  m.  Mary  Ann  Cutler,  daughter  James  and  Mehitable  Cutler  and 
granddaughter  Gov.  James  Sullivan. 


6  William  Appleton  [1832 

for  future  Business.  Commenced  the  building  of  the  ships 
"Telegraph,"  "Courier,"  and  afterwards  "Minerva."  Be- 
fore they  were  finished  I  was  attacked  by  the  dispepsey,  so 
called.  With  these  difficulties  I  contended  till  the  Autumn; 
when  in  November  I  embarked  for  Charleston,  where  I 
passed  the  Winter.  I  returned  in  a  much  worse  State  than 
I  left.  The  Summer  was  passed  in  travelling,  a  most  mis- 
erable existence;  very  great  irritability,  but  God  knows, 
not  without  great  suffering.  In  the  Autumn  I  embarked 
with  My  Wife  &  Dr.  James  for  the  Mediterranean.  A  par- 
ticular account  of  the  voyage  &  journey  may  be  found  in 
another  Manuscript.  We  passed  the  Winter  in  Sicily,  then 
went  to  Rome,  Paris,  London  and  embarked  in  the  Au- 
tumn of  1817  for  Charleston,  where  we  passed  the  Winter. 
In  April  following  we  returned  to  Boston,  much  improved 
in  health.  During  my  absence  I  expended  about  ten  thou- 
sand dollars,  which  sum  I  made  in  shipments  from  Sicily 
to  the  United  States  &  England,  and  in  goods  from  Eng- 
land to  Charleston.  In  the  year  1818  and  summer  of  1819 
we  lived  at  Lodgings;  in  the  autumn  of  1819  I  purchased 
the  House1  in  which  I  have  since  lived  from  Mr.  Nathan 
Appleton  at  $  14,000  &  $1000  for  Glasses,  Carpets,  etc. 
This  year  I  went  into  business  with  Messrs.  Paige  &  Chase, 
which  continued  six  years.  I  made  by  that  concern  about 
thirty  thousand  dollars  and  carried  on  considerable  busi- 
ness on  my  individual  account,  my  health  feeble,  yet  able 
to  attend  to  Business. 

After  dissolving  with  Paige  &  Chase,  I  went  consider- 

1  54  Beacon  Street,  now  owned  by  Mrs.  George  von  L.  Meyer. 


'S^e^ct  rots      ^/Ov 


1832]  Early  Life  7 

ably  into  the  Manufacturing  business,  and  by  the  advance 
on  Stocks,  purchases  and  Sales  I  made  considerable  money. 
But  I  have  nearly  paid  my  family  expenses  by  participat- 
ing in  Commissions  with  Southern  Houses ;  my  purchases 
with  Prince,  Ward,  King  &  Co.,  etc.,  etc.  My  property  has 
increased  every  year  since  I  have  been  in  Business  except 
the  year  1829. 

January  1st,  1829,  I  thought  myself  worth  $200,000; 
1830,  More  effects  than  in  1829  but  property  depreciated, 
$180,000;  1831,  $280,000;  1832,  $330,000. 

My  success  in  business  is  uncommon,  no  man  in  Boston 
of  the  Age,  I  am  forty-five,  has  made  as  much,  and  only 
one,  David  Sears,  possesses  as  much  probably.  My  repu- 
tation, I  fancy,  stands  much  higher  than  it  deserves  as  a 
man  of  talents,  but  I  do  not  wish  or  intend  to  undeceive 
the  Publick. 


WINTER  IN  SICILY:  1816-1817 

1816 

SEPTEMBER  30^,  Monday.  A  pleasant  morning; 
rose  early  and  went  to  my  Store  to  make  prepara- 
tion for  sailing  in  the  Ship  "  Roxanna"  for  the  Medi- 
terranean. At  two  o'clock,  Mrs.  Apple  ton  &  myself  went 
on  board  with  Dr.  James  &  Mr.  Porter,  to  be  our  fellow 
passengers.  Mother,  Mr.  &  Mrs.  William  Sullivan,  Mr. 
&  Mrs.  Nathan  Appleton,  Sarah  &  Harriet  Cutler  accom- 
panyed  us  to  the  ship  to  see  us  embark.  Mr.  Rice  &  Mr. 
Tilden  went  with  us  to  the  Narrows.  My  feelings  on  sep- 
arating from  our  friends  can  much  easier  be  imagined  than 
described.  My  spirits  are  good,  and  much  strengthened  by 
seeing  my  wife  show  so  much  fortitude  on  the  occasion; 
she  has  hardly  shed  a  tear.  We  are  now  at  Anchor  in  the 
narrows,  seven  miles  from  Boston. 

OCTOBER  Ist,  Tuesday.  Light  east  wind;  we  remain 
at  Anchor.  The  Captain  is  getting  everything  in 
order  for  the  voyage.  I  do  not  feel  in  as  good  spirits  as 
yesterday;  although  I  think  I  shall  return  to  my  native 
Country,  yet  I  am  aware  that  is  not  the  impression  of  my 
friends  generally;  I  am  weak  and  only  able  to  take  very 
little  food.  I  think  of  giving  up  my  present  diet  of  beef 
and  trying  milk;  I  am  in  hopes  that  I  shall  be  able  to 
eat  more  then.  I  have  done  of  late  with,  say  4  oz.  of  beef 
and  a  small  biscuit  in  the  whole  day.  My  present  weight 


1816]  Winter  in  Sicily  9 

is  103  lbs.  Wednesday,  2nd.  At  twelve  o'clock  the  ship  got 
under  way;  we  have  a  pleasant  day  as  to  the  weather, — 
but  the  reverse  is  my  feeling  when  I  recollect  that  the  wind 
is  wafting  us  fast  from  our  dear  friends.  I  have  eaten  more 
than  usual  this  day,  consisting  of  milk  and  figs,  and  drank 
two  glasses  of  wine,  the  first  I  have  tried  for  a  long  time. 
Thursday,  10^.  Commenced  eating  rice  and  Herring;  I  have 
done  with  wine  and  milk.  Friday,  18^.  The  wind  from  the 
east,  pleasant  weather;  ate  rice  &  mutton.  I  am  consider- 
ably troubled  with  my  feet  swelling;  it  commenced  about 
ten  days  since  to  a  considerable  degree;  I  had  something 
of  it  before  we  left  Boston.  Saturday,  19^.  Took  a  little  milk 
with  rice  in  the  morning  and  Pork  and  rice  for  dinner  with 
some  gin.  My  feet  much  swollen,  very  much,  otherwise  pretty 
well.  I  am  getting  out  of  conceit  of  Gin.  Monday,  l\st.  Our 
dear  boy's  birthday.  Lat.  370:  14';  Long.  370:  05'.  Ate  two 
onions,  and  no  inconvenience  came  from  them.  Wednes- 
day, 23rd.  I  eat  Pork  &  rice  pretty  well.  The  Captain  says  we 
have  very  uncommon  weather;  the  wind  continues  East; 
we  have  not  made  100  miles  on  our  passage  in  twelve  days. 
Friday,  25th.  I  was  induced  to  try  some  baked  beans;  Dr. 
James  said  a  patient  of  his  was  able  to  eat  them  when  very 
weak;  I  do  not  find  any  ill  effects  from  them.  Sunday,  2~]th. 
We  are  much  pleased  to  find  ourselves  getting  on.  I  fancy 
I  have  picked  a  little  too  much  food  from  the  Cook.  Wednes- 
day, opth.  Wind  North.  Spoke  a  brig  from  Baltimore. 


N 


OVEMBER  2nd,  Saturday.  I  feel  sick  and  irritable; 
ate  very  little  mutton  &  rice  and  drinking  nothing. 


io  William  Appleton  [1816 

Sunday,ofd.  Spoke  the  ship"  Lancaster  "from  Madeira,  Long. 
150,  Lat.  36°.*52'.  My  feet  and  legs  so  much  swelled  that 
I  cannot  get  on  any  stocking  or  pantaloons  without  rip- 
ping them  open;  I  do  not  know  how  to  account  for  it,  I 
cannot  walk,  nor  hardly  stand.  Monday,  \th.  A  gale  of  wind 
from  the  S.  West.  Tuesday,  $th.  We  laid  our  ship  to  the  wind 
all  the  last  night.  We  are  not  willing  to  run,  the  weather 
being  thick,  as  we  think  we  are  nigh  Cape  St.  Vincent. 
Wednesday,  6t/l.  We  lay  in  to  the  wind;  bad  weather,  very 
unpleasant.  We  were  spoken  by  a  Patriot  Privateer.  We 
find  ourselves  nearly  two  hundred  miles  from  the  land. 
Thursday.  Wind  North  West;  going  8  miles.  Ate  very  little 
and  feel  pretty  well.  Friday,  8^.  Delightful  day,  we  passed 
Cape  Spartel  at  midnight.  Saturday,  9^.  At  sunrise,  we  were 
abreast  of  Gibraltar.  The  appearance  of  the  rock  more  than 
equalled  my  expectations,  Algeciras — a  pretty  looking 
Town,  in  sight  at  the  same  time.  After  passing  the  Straits 
the  sail  was  delightful;  the  mountains  very  high,  they  have 
a  barren  appearance;  one,  higher  than  the  rest,  hove  in 
sight  when  we  were  thirty  miles  from  Gibraltar  and  con- 
tinued in  sight  till  we  had  sailed  one  hundred  &  seventy 
miles;  the  top  covered  with  snow.  We  sailed  in  sight  of  the 
Coast  of  Spain  all  this  day,  occasionally  seeing  the  Coast 
of  Africa.  I  have  never  felt  a  similar  feeling  that  I  now 
have;  the  immense  Mountains  with  their  hoary  tops  con- 
nected with  the  idea  of  entering  the  seas  famed  for  a  variety 
of  circumstances  in  Ancient  history,  and  the  idea  of  hav- 
ing the  Old  World  on  each  side,  seemed  to  demand  a  rever- 
ence not  usual.  Sunday^  \oth.  The  land  at  a  distance  of  about 


1816]  Winter  in  Sicily  11 

forty  miles  has  a  very  grand  appearance;  the  sky  very  clear 
and  beautiful.  Monday,  \\th.  Rather  cold.  Sky  very  clear; 
the  tops  of  the  Mountains  in  Europe  and  Africa  are  to  be 
seen  at  the  same  time;  they  have  a  sublime  appearance.  I 
have  been  more  interested  in  reading  the  writings  of  Saint 
Paul  within  the  two  days  past  than  ever  before.  I  can  di- 
vest myself  of  the  idea  of  their  having  been  written  a  very, 
very  long  time ;  the  situation  makes  them  appear  new  to 
me.  400  Miles  from  Gibraltar.  I  never  saw  the  atmosphere 
as  clear;  the  Mountains  tower  almost  to  the  Heavens;  the 
coasts  of  Europe  and  Africa  are  in  sight;  their  appearance 
connected  with  my  feelings  from  this  situation  carries  me 
back  a  thousand  years.  Wednesday,  13^.  We  are  out  of  sight 
of  the  land,  and  nothing  interesting;  ate  mutton  and  arrow- 
root. Friday,  \$th.  The  sea  short  and  unpleasant.  At  even- 
ing saw  the  Island  of  Sardinia;  I  feel  quite  smart.  Satur- 
day, \&h.  North  Wind  &cold.  Sardinia  in  sight.  This  day 
commences  my  thirty-first  year;  to  look  back  on  the  last 
year  I  find  it  checkered  with  much  pain  and  pleasure.  I  do 
not  know  anything  to  accuse  myself  of,  except  giving  way 
to  my  irritable  feelings,  and  then  by  treating  my  friends 
with  impoliteness  and  servants  with  rudeness,  but  I  hope 
and  trust  that  as  I  gain  my  health,  I  shall  then  have  com- 
mand of  my  feelings.  Two  hundred  miles  from  Palermo. 
Sunday,  1  j*K  The  day  delightful.  At  six  o'clock  made  the 
Island  of  Sicily;  we  passed  the  high  barren  Mountains 
with  much  rapidity;  the  appearance  of  the  Hills  was  noble, 
at  sunset.  We  had  an  anxious  evening.  At  1 1  o'clock  we 
came  to  Anchor  in  the  Harbour  of  Palermo;  Our  Captain 


12  William  Appleton  [1816 

Blake  was  quite  out  of  sorts.  Monday ',  18^.  Went  on  shore 
to  the  Health  Officer,  and  all  hands  at  3  o'clock  p.m.  Tues- 
day,  19^.  Went  again  to  the  Health  Officer.  Ate  some  figs, 
bread  &  butter  and  do  not  feel  well.  Cold  Morning;  Ther. 
58°,  snow  on  the  Mountains.  20^.  Palermo,  in  Quarantine. 
I  ate  a  bunch  of  Grapes  at  1 2  o'clock  by  the  advice  of  Dr. 
James;  after  dinner  I  drank  two  glasses  of  Grape  Wine, 
which  in  a  few  minutes  brought  on  a  severe  pain.  By  an 
application  of  flannels,  hot  bricks,  etc.,  the  pain  was  par- 
tially removed  in  a  few  hours,  and  I  went  to  sleep  under 
the  effect  of  laudanum.  Thursday,  2\st.  I  am  more  com- 
fortable than  yesterday,  but  confined  to  my  bed  mostly. 
Friday,  IInd.  I  am  very  weak;  the  swelling  in  my  legs  has 
almost  entirely  left  me;  I  am  confined  to  the  Cabin.  l^d. 
Quarantine.  A  very  warm  wind,  south  east,  they  say  it  is 
something  of  the  Sirocco.  I  am  much  oppressed  by  the  heat. 
Dr.  James  recommends  a  course  of  Calomel.  I  began  tak- 
ing \y2  grains  with  Opium.  Monday,  25th.  Very  tired  of 
the  ship.  Tuesday,  2&h.  I  took  a  shower-bath  for  the  first  time 
for  several  days,  no  ill-effects  from  it;  I  am  very  irritable 
and  weak.  During  our  passage  I  have  been  in  the  habit  of 
taking  a  shower-bath  every  morning  at  four  o'clock  and 
then  going  to  bed.  Saturday,  opth.  I  took  35  drops  of  lau- 
danum last  night  and  slept  well. 

DECEMBER  yd,  Tuesday.  I  am  not  as  well  as  yester- 
day, I  am  so  weak  as  to  be  hardly  able  to  keep  out 
of  bed.  Wednesday,  \th.  Took  some  laudanum  in  the  morn- 
ing to  regulate  my  stomach,  I  have  taken  the  oil  of  cin- 


1816]  Winter  in  Sicily  13 

namon  for  several  days.  We  are  happy  in  being  told  that 
we  are  to  leave  the  Ship  tomorrow.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Chabot 
called  to  see  us.  Thursday,  $th.  At  y2  past  ten,  after  an  ex- 
amination by  the  Physicians  and  considerable  demur  we 
obtained  Pratique.  Mr.  Chabot  took  us  to  Page's  Hotel. 
(yth.  Mr.  Ingham  called;  offered  his  House,  Carriage,  etc., 
to  us.  Dr.  Patranagio  called  to  see  me;  he  seems  an  intel- 
ligent man,  and  I  think  understands  my  complaints.  He 
says  the  mutton  of  Sicily  is  not  good,  wishes  me  to  eat 
beef  and  game  and  more  light  food  such  as  Arrow  root, 
and  drink  a  little  coffee  and  try  wine.  Saturday,  7th.  A  very 
wet  day.  I  went  in  Mr.  Ingham's  carriage  with  Mr.  Por- 
ter to  look  for  a  house.  I  feel  better  for  the  excursion. 
Wednesday,  1 1A  Dr.  Patranagio  called  to  see  me.  I  am  not 
allowed  to  go  out  of  my  room;  he  says  my  complaints 
are  debility,  and  nothing  else.  Friday,  1 3^.  Rode  with  Dr. 
James  and  Mrs.  Appleton  to  the  Palace  Favorita,  which  is 
built  in  the  Chinese  style,  rather  finical  in  its  appearance ; 
it  is  the,  or  one  of  the  country  residences  of  the  King.  The 
ride  is  very  pleasant  to  it,  and  in  the  same  neighbour- 
hood are  several  very  fine  Palaces.  Saturday,  1  \th.  We  went 
to  La  Bagaria,  I  was  delighted  beyond  expression;  the 
beauty  of  the  place  and  my  sensations  would  be  equally 
impossible  for  me  to  describe.  One  Palace,  built  by  a  ro- 
mantic Prince,  which  was  surrounded  by  the  statues  of 
monsters,  was  the  most  striking;  the  elegance  of  the  apart- 
ments and  the  rich  manner  of  their  being  furnished  would 
lead  one  to  suppose  that  Art  attempted  to  vie  with  Nature, 
which  in  beauty  of  prospect,  richness  of  soil  and  high  state 


14  William  Appleton  [1816 

of  cultivation  exceeds  anything  I  have  ever  seen  or  could 
have  imagined.  The  view  of  the  surrounding  country  and 
the  Bay  of  Palermo  appears  to  the  greatest  advantage  from 
the  observatory  of  the  palace.  Sunday,  15^.  We  rode  towards 
Parco,  through  interesting  country;  the  soil  in  a  high  state 
of  useful  cultivation,  but  not  highly  ornamented  as  the 
grounds  contiguous  to  La  Bagaria;  the  scenery  is  as  ro- 
mantic as  any  Lady  could  wish.  Tuesday,  17^.  Mrs.  Apple- 
ton,  Mr.  Porter,  Doctor  James  &  myself  went  to  Monreale, 
which  is  situated  about  five  miles  from  Palermo  on  the 
side  of  the  Mountain.  You  ascend  by  a  Z  road  made  by 
the  Government.  The  view  from  this  place  is  very  exten- 
sive and  like  all  others  that  leave  the  valley  of  Palermo, 
very  beautiful.  There  is  an  extensive  Convent  in  the  place 
kept  in  excellent  order;  the  number  of  Priests  attached 
to  it  is  two  hundred.  In  the  Convent  is  a  most  valuable 
painting  by  a  native  of  the  village,  done  about  one  hun- 
dred years  since ;  the  subject  is  King  William  discovering 
the  hidden  treasure  of  his  father,  which  was  deposited  to 
build  the  Church  in  that  Town.  The  Picture  belongs  to 
the  Church  which  has  been  much  celebrated  for  its  extent 
and  for  the  four  walls  being  constructed  of  mosaic  of  no 
common  kind.  The  Church  has  been  nearly  destroyed 
within  a  few  years  by  fire.  We  found  the  Priests  disposed 
to  be  attentive  to  us.  18^.  Went  to  the  silk  manufactory 
and  were  much  pleased;  this  establishment  belongs  to  the 
Sicilian  Government;  About  five  hundred  poor  persons 
are  employed  in  this  institution  (as  it  was  originally  in- 
tended as  a  hospital)  under  the  direction  of  Nuns;  this 


1816]  Winter  in  Sicily  15 

establishment  is  connected  with  the  Manufactory.  Thurs- 
day, 19^.  Dined  at  Mr.  Ingham's,  a  handsome  dinner;  Mr. 
Porter,  James,  Mr.  &  Miss  Prior  and  an  Austrian  Am- 
bassador was  our  party.  A  person  unacquainted  with  this 
sort  of  cattle  might  have  mistaken  him  for  a  gentleman, 
yet  often  he  shows  the  cloven  foot.  Miss  Prior  seems  a  good 
little  woman,  dejected,  not  handsome,  about  twenty-eight 
and  cut  out  for  a  spinster.  Mr.  Prior  I  like  pretty  well; 
he  seems  kind  but  very  narrow-minded,  a  small  man  in 
every  respect.  Friday,  10th.  Mr.  Hardman,  Dr.  James, 
Mrs.  Apple  ton  and  myself  went  to  see  some  of  the  prin- 
cipal churches  which  for  size  and  elegance  surpassed  any 
I  have  ever  seen.  The  expense  of  building  them  must  have 
been  immense.  The  Mother  Church,  or  Cathedral,  was 
built  about  eleven  hundred  years  since.  In  this  Church 
are  deposited  the  bodies  of  several  Kings  in  Coffins  of 
Porphyry.  Roger  the  first  was  laid  there  in  1137;  they 
have  a  very  rich  appearance.  I  was  much  fatigued  with 
walking  through  the  Churches.  Mrs.  A.  went  with  the 
gentlemen  to  the  Praetor's  Hall  and  the  Palace  on  the 
Marina.  Sunday,  22nd.  Pleasant,  but  cold.  Rode  with  my 
wife  &  Dr.  James  to  the  Prince  Regent's  Palace  and  went 
through  the  gardens.  The  view  of  the  City,  the  Ocean  and 
the  valley  is  beautiful  and  more  extensive  than  from  any 
other  point  I  have  yet  been.  We  met  the  Prince  who  very 
politely  took  off  his  hat  to  us,  a  compliment  to  us  as 
strangers.  Wednesday,  25th.  Rode  to  the  King's  Palace  & 
Mr.  Ingham's  place;  dined  at  Mr.  Chabot's.  We  had  a 
pleasant  party  and  a  good  dinner,  but  Mrs.  Appleton  & 


16  William  Appleton  [1816 

myself  were  thinking  too  much  of  our  friends  in  Boston 
to  enjoy  our  Christmas  dinner  from  them.  Thursday,  26^. 
A  stupid  fellow  by  the  name  of  Smith  of  Philadelphia  and 
myself  rode  to  the  top  of  the  Mountain,  about  four  miles 
above  Parco,  from  which  you  may  have  a  most  perfect 
view  of  the  whole  valley  from  Monreale  to  Monte  Pelle- 
grino,  the  City  &  the  Ocean,  while  Parco  seems  under  your 
feet.  Friday,  17th.  We  passed  the  evening  at  Mr.  Chabot's, 
where  we  had  some  fine  musick  by  a  Spanish  gentleman, 
Mrs.  A.  delighted.  Saturday,  28^.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Chabot  ac- 
companied us  to  the  King's  Palace  to  see  the  Representa- 
tion of  the  Shepherds  going  to  find  our  Saviour.  The  ap- 
pearance of  the  Country,  flocks,  Peasantry,  Cottages,  all 
together  was  well  done  and  had  a  very  fine  effect.  The  work 
was  executed  at  Naples,  at  the  expense  of  Ten  Thousand 
dollars,  paid  by  the  Prince  Regent  It  was  about  100  feet 
long  and  some  of  the  Mountains  15  to  20  feet  high.  It  was 
constructed  mostly  of  Cork.  Although  the  effect  was  pretty, 
I  could  not  think  there  was  anything  that  carried  solem- 
nity, but  it  rather  struck  you  as  a  puppet  show.  The  figures 
were  well  done  and  some  of  the  faces  very  expressive;  the 
Costumes  of  the  People  very  neatly  done.  Monday,  opth.  I 
rode  in  the  morning  to  the  Ship,  on  a  Jack.  Tuesday,  31^. 
Mrs.  A.  &  self  dined  at  Mr.  Hardman's,a  good  sort  of  man. 
This  day  ends  a  year  in  which  I  have  suffered  much  from 
ill-health  and  anxiety.  My  health  has  been  uniformly  bad, 
my  spirits  much  depressed,  I  have  not  been  useful  to  my- 
self or  my  friends,  but  troublesome  to  both.  I  often  discover 
pity  in  those  about  me,  but  I  fear  I  have  made  no  friends. 


1817]  Winter  in  Sicily  17 


1817 

JANUARY  Vf,  Wednesday.  Palermo.  This  year  com- 
mences with  a  most  delightful  morning,  the  Air  very 
clear.  I  do  not  begin  the  year  in  very  good  spirits,  I  fear  I 
am  doomed  to  be  a  poor  creature.  Could  I  be  freed  from 
irritability,  I  should  be  relieved  of  much  pain  and  morti- 
fication; I  suffer  more  in  this  way  than  from  any  other 
cause.  I  am  daily  promising  myself  that  I  will  improve,  but 
my  success  has  been  so  little  that  I  am  almost  discouraged, 
yet  I  will  not  give  up  the  hope  of  being  useful  to  my 
friends  and  having  the  command  of  my  feelings.  I  rode  this 
morning  as  usual,  and  passed  the  evening  at  Mr.  Chabot's, 
where  all  the  English  society  of  the  City  were  assembled, 
some  thirty  or  forty.  Thursday,  2nd.  I  rode  to  the  Ship  "  Rox- 
anna"  and  a  few  miles  into  the  Country.  We  dined  at  Mr. 
(Dates',  where  we  met  a  pleasant  party  of  fourteen  persons, 
all  English.  We  passed  the  evening  there,  played  whist, 
returned  home  at  eleven  o'clock.  I  have  not  felt  well;  kept 
up  by  stimulating  &  society;  —  went  to  bed  quite  ill,  some 
fever  and  pain  in  my  back.  Friday,  yd.  I  do  not  feel  as  if 
I  could  walk.  I  fear  I  am  getting  dowrn.  Mr.  Le  Mesury 
called  to  take  me  to  drive  with  him  in  his  gig.  After  driv- 
ing about  one  mile,  I  was  attacked  with  a  severe  pain  in 
my  right  kidney;  by  the  time  I  got  home  the  pain  was  so 
severe  that  I  doubted  whether  I  could  survive  any  con- 
siderable time.  Dr.  Webber  was  called;  he  administered 
Opium,  hot  brandy,  an  injection  of  Oil,  Honey,  salt  & 


18  William  Appleton  [1817 

water,  I  had  hot  bricks  put  to  my  feet  and  back  and  a 
change  of  hot  flannels  continually  till  twelve  o'clock  when 
I  fell  into  a  doze;  while  the  spasms  were  the  most  severe  my 
pulse  was  quite  stopped.  I  never  before  felt  pain  like  what 
I  experienced  this  day;  Dr.  Webber  said  in  my  presence 
that  without  relief,  I  could  not  live  twenty  minutes.  Satur- 
day, \th.  I  found  myself  better  than  I  expected,  and  felt 
quite  easy  till  two  o'clock  when  I  was  attacked  as  the  day 
before.  When  the  pain  first  commenced,  I  could  not  believe 
that  I  should  be  able  to  bear  the  pain  I  was  threatened 
with;  similar  remedies  were  applied  as  those  of  yesterday, 
and  in  about  twelve  hours  I  got  relief;  the  attack  was  by 
no  means  as  severe  as  the  first.  Sunday,  $th.  I  remained  in 
bed  this  day,  most  of  my  friends  called  to  see  me.  I  was 
too  weak  to  sit  up.  Monday,  bth.  Mr.  Chabot  took  me  to 
ride  on  the  Marina;  I  was  not  out  more  than  half  an  hour; 
the  day  most  delightful,  the  sky  clear  beyond  comparison 
with  any  I  ever  saw  in  America;  the  thermometer  stands 
from  580  to  62  °  Generally.  Wednesday,  8^.  The  tops  of  the 
Mountains  are  quite  white  with  snow;  it  is  a  very  wet, 
uncomfortable  day.  Thursday,  gt/l.  Anniversary  of  our  wed- 
ding day.  My  spirits  pretty  good.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Chabot  & 
Mr.  &  Mrs.  Oates  passed  the  evening  with  us  and  a  few 
Gentlemen  joined  us  in  a  game  at  whist.  Mrs.  Oates  was 
delivered  of  a  fine  son  after  she  returned  home.  Saturday, 
WK  I  passed  a  bad  night.  My  pulse  from  75  to  100  in 
the  minute.  I  am  alarmed  lest  I  have  diabetes  coming  on, 
my  Physicians  say  they  fear  it.  Sunday,  \2th.  This  is  a  great 
day  through  Italy,  the  birthday  of  Ferdinand.  I  feel  pretty 


1817]  Winter  in  Sicily  19 

well,  but  not  able  to  go  out.  There  was  much  show  at 
Court  this  day;  we  thought  our  friend  Porter  not  a  little  dis- 
appointed in  not  having  an  opportunity  to  show  his  lace 
Coat,  but  unfortunately  he  had  no  invitation.  He  expected 
to  have  been  taken  by  the  hand  by  the  Nobility  immedi- 
ately on  his  arrival  and  refused  English  society,  on  the  be- 
lief that  he  should  find  the  Sicilians  more  pleasing,  but  he 
must  associate  with  the  English  or  have  no  society  here. 
They  have  a  bad  opinion  of  Mercantile  men  and  no  wish 
for  their  acquaintance  unless  they  can  make  something  by 
them.  Wednesday,  \$th.  The  Ship  "Sally  Ann"  arrived 
which  gave  us  much  pleasure.  We  have  letters  from  many 
of  our  dear  friends,  all  well  &  give  us  pleasing  intelligence. 
I  never  experienced  more  anxiety  than  from  the  time  of 
her  arrival  till  I  got  my  letters,  but  was  fully  paid  in  re- 
ceiving them.  Mr.  George  Hinckley  &  Lt.  Guisinger  came 
as  passengers  in  the  "Sally  Ann."  I  find  myself  very  weak 
and  nervous;  My  good  Wife  has  a  sorry  time  with  me;  I 
hope  for  a  change  soon.  Thursday,  16^.  We  have  a  violent 
gale  of  wind  from  the  West  with  rain;  we  are  all  confined 
within  the  walls  of  the  house.  I  have  amused  myself  in 
reading  the  letters  and  Papers  recd  by  the  "  Sally  Ann." 
Mr.  &  Mrs.  Chabot  passed  the  evening  with  us  at  a  game 
of  whist.  Saturday,  18^.  Mrs.  Appleton  went  to  the  Opera 
with  Mrs.  Chabot.  Monday,  10th.  Writing  letters  to  go  by 
the  "Roxanna."  Sirocco  wind;  the  air  is  very  clear  and 
pleasant  yet  one  feels  languid  with  this  wind,  it  affects  the 
spirits  and  feelings  of  everyone.  Wednesday,  22nd.  I  find 
myself  very  weak,  hardly  able  to  sit  up;  fatigue  is  very 


20  William  Appleton  [1817 

bad  for  me,  it  throws  me  on  my  back  at  once.  Mrs.  Apple- 
ton  accompanied  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Chabot,  Mr.  Porter  and  Dr. 
James  to  the  Mountain;  on  its  top  is  the  tomb  of  St.  Ro- 
salia, which  they  went  to  see.  We  all  dined  together  and 
played  whist  in  the  Evening.  The  "  Roxanna"  sailed.  Sun- 
day, 2&h.  Rode  to  Mr.  Ingham's  place  at  Rocco.  We  found 
it  very  pleasant  and  are  almost  determined  to  go  there  to 
reside.  We  then  went  to  the  garden  of  the  Prince  of  Aci, 
the  Praetor  of  Palermo;  he  was  very  polite  in  shewing  us 
his  grounds  and  his  Pheasantry  which  contained  some  hun- 
dred Pheasants;  they  looked  beautifully.  He  invited  us  to 
sup  at  his  box  at  the  Opera,  being  a  Masquerade  evening. 
I  have  not  felt  as  well  for  some  time,  as  this  day.  Monday, 
2JtA.  Made  up  our  minds  to  remove  to  Rocco  and  are 
engaged  in  making  preparations  for  so  doing.  Wednesday, 
29^.  Took  up  our  bed  and  Marched  to  Rocco,  four  miles 
from  Palermo,  Capt.  Blake  accompanied  us.  I  have  great 
faith  in  a  change  of  air.  I  am  fully  persuaded  that  I  am  to 
get  well  at  Rocco.  Friday,  31^.  Dr.  James  sailed  for  Naples 
in  the  "Sally  Ann." 

FEBRUARY  Ist,  Saturday.  Engaged  in  putting  our 
house  in  order.  'Thursday,  bth.  Went  with  Mr.  Ingham 
to  the  Praetor  to  purchase  some  wheat  and  Oil.  The  Prince 
we  found  quite  a  man  of  business  and  much  of  the  cunning 
of  the  Sicilian  in  his  countenance,  yet  he  is  a  fine  looking 
man.  Friday,  7th.  Went  to  the  City  as  usual  with  Mrs.  Ap- 
pleton. Went  to  see  the  Prince  of  Aci  who  paid  the  Ameri- 
cans many  compliments;  he  is  much  of  a  democrat.  I  recd 


1817]  Winter  in  Sicily  21 

a  letter  from  Gen1  Harper  enclosing  letters  of  introduc- 
tion; I  was  much  pleased  by  his  attention.  Tuesday,  n«*. 
The  French  Frigate  sailed  for  Naples.  Friday,  14A  I  have 
not  seen  so  stormy  a  night  as  the  last  since  we  have  been 
at  Rocco,  the  north  side  of  the  house  is  covered  with  snow. 
Dined  by  ourselves  for  the  first  time.  Saturday,  \$th.  Wrote 
letters  by  the  "Fanny."  Sunday,  \bth,  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Chabot 
dined  with  us,  we  are  much  pleased  with  them,  they  are 
well-bred  people  and  very  attentive  to  us.  Monday,  \~jth. 
Thunder  and  Hail,  very  violent.  Mrs.  Appleton  accom- 
panied Mr.  &  Mrs.  Chabot  to  a  Ball;  we  dined  at  Mr.  Cha- 
bot's  and  slept  at  Page's.  Wednesday,  19^.  Dined  at  Mr. 
Wood's,  where  we  met  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Chabot  and  some  half 
dozen  Bachelors,  a  pleasant  party.  Mr.  Wood  is  an  excel- 
lent Scotchman.  Friday,  l\st.  Charming  morning;  Rode  on 
horseback  a  little  way  and  went  to  the  City  and  made  calls 
with  Mrs.  A.  Wednesday,  26^.  Went  to  the  City, "Sally  Ann" 
arrived  from  Naples ;  I  went  on  board,  weighed  97  lbs. 

MARCH  2nd,  Sunday.  Went  with  a  large  party  on 
board  the  "Sally  Ann,"  where  we  had  a  splendid 
Collation  given  by  Capt.  Blake  to  the  Praetor;  Mr.  &  Mrs. 
Oates,  Mr.  Wood  &  Porter  dined  with  us.  Wednesday,  $th. 
I  feel  very  weak  in  consequence  of  eating  too  many  figs. 
Friday,  7^.  Dined  by  ourselves,  quite  cosy  &  pleasant.  Mon- 
day, 1  oih.  Went  to  the  City;  wrote  Eben *  by  the  "  Neptune  " 
for  Liverpool.  Tuesday,  1  \th.  I  called  with  Mr.  Wood  on  the 
Baron  Acita  and  went  to  the  Glass  factory  with  them.  Fri- 

1  Appleton. 


22  William  Appleton  [1817 

day,  14A  We  went  to  the  Convent  of  Capuchins,  where 
the  bodies  of  Monks  are  preserved;  some  have  been  there 
it  is  said  one  thousand  years.  Saturday,  \$th.  Wet,  gloomy 
morning.  Rode  to  the  City,  but  did  not  remain  long;  re- 
turned to  my  wife  who  was  quite  alone.  \bth.  We  recd 
letters  from  London  from  Mrs.  Amory,  we  were  much 
pleased;  I  never  saw  my  good  wife  more  delighted.  Wednes- 
day, \gt/l.  I  was  invited  to  dine  with  the  Prince  of  Aci,  the 
Praetor,  but  did  not  go,  as  the  weather  is  not  pleasant. 
Thursday,  10th,  Baron  Acita  came  to  see  us.  We  have  not 
had  so  bad  weather  this  winter  before  as  at  Present.  Fri- 
day, 2\st.  Mrs.  Appleton  &  myself  went  to  the  City,  as 
usual  rode  on  the  Marina.  Wednesday,  26^.  Raining  with 
Thunder  in  the  morning.  I  went  to  Mr.  Chabot's  to  say  that 
we  would  not  accompany  them  to  see  the  Bishop  laid  out 
in  State,  as  Mrs.  A.  had  a  cold.  I  took  a  ride  to  the  Church 
and  finding  the  show  worth  looking  at,  I  returned  and 
took  Mrs.  Appleton  to  see  the  dead  Bishop.  On  our  arri- 
val at  the  Church  we  met  some  difficulty  in  getting  admit- 
tance. An  Officer  came  out  and  ordered  the  soldiers  to  let 
us  pass,  seeing  we  were  strangers.  On  getting  into  the 
Church  I  was  struck  very  sensibly  with  the  peculiar  ap- 
pearance of  the  objects  before  me.  Over  the  door  of  the 
Church  (S.  Francisco  di  Paolo)  was  hung  a  black  cloth,  let- 
tered with  gold  giving  the  birth,  age,  etc.,  of  the  deceased 
Bishop.  The  interior  of  the  Church  was  completely  cov- 
ered within  the  Pillars  with  black  velvet  curtains  trimmed 
with  gold.  In  front  was  a  Mausoleum,  or  Temple  in  the 
Grecian  style;  this  was  erected  about  half  the  height  of  the 


1817]  Winter  in  Sicily  23 

wall  of  the  Church  and  splendidly  ornamented  with  black 
lace  and  gold  trimmings.  In  the  centre  of  this  Temple  was 
placed  the  body  of  the  Bishop  dressed  in  rich  robes,  with 
a  white  wig  on  his  head;  holding  in  his  hand  a  Mitre  (an 
insignia  of  office) — behind  the  curtain  stood  some  persons 
occasionally  waving  banners  of  white  silk  over  the  head 
of  the  corpse,  the  persons  not  being  visible ;  it  had  the  ap- 
pearance of  some  celestial  movement  as  was  intended  it 
should.  The  body  was  placed  in  an  easy  chair,  or  throne, 
in  a  position  that  one  would  take  who  was  inclined  to  Sleep 
or  doze.  The  Mausoleum  was  covered  by  a  canopy  run- 
ning to  a  point  at  the  top,  to  a  height  nearly  as  great  as 
that  of  the  Church,  made  of  velvet;  this  canopy  was  sur- 
rounded by  eight  rows  of  lights  so  placed,  so  arranged,  as 
the  blaze  only  was  visible,  and  had  the  appearance  of  so 
many  stars  surrounding  the  canopy;  there  were  one  hun- 
dred and  fifty  of  these  stars.  The  sides  and  front  of  the 
Church  were  illuminated  in  the  same  manner;  there  were 
more  than  a  thousand  lamps  lighted.  On  the  sides  of  the 
Church  were  erected  stages  to  come  forward  equal  with 
the  curtains  or  hangings,  for  the  musicians;  on  both  sides 
were  the  musicians  placed,  at  least  two  hundred  in  num- 
ber, and  mass  saying  at  the  different  altars  behind  the  cur- 
tains, for  the  benefit  of  his  soul.  The  music  was  solemn  and 
exquisitely  fine;  I  think  it  far  exceeded  anything  of  the 
kind  I  ever  heard  before.  Next  to  the  Mausoleum  was 
seated  the  person  who  would  succeed  the  late  Bishop,  and 
the  Priests  next  to  him,  in  order  according  to  their  age. 
They  were  dressed  in  white  broadcloth  cloaks,  elegantly 


24  William  Appleton  [1817 

trimmed  with  lace.  Their  equipages  were  as  elegant  as  any 
I  have  seen  in  Palermo;  they  drove  four  black  horses,  each 
with  coachman  and  footman  dressed  in  livery  of  white 
with  buff  lace.  The  Church  was  much  crowded,  mostly 
with  Priests,  dressed  agreeable  to  their  different  orders, 
some  in  black,  some  in  white  and  some  in  grey.  (So  this 
world  goes,  as  Meg  Merrilies  says.)  The  scene  caused  very 
solemn  feeling  without  disgust;  all  was  perfectly  decorous 
and  nothing  could  be  more  splendid.  The  Bishop's  name 
was  Iroda.  He  died  very  rich,  they  say  by  pilfering  the 
charities  put  in  his  hands  for  Charity.  Why  can  man  desire 
pomp  and  show  over  his  Clay  when  his  character  bears  such 
stains?  Thursday,  27th.  Chevalier  Auter,  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Chabot 
accompanied  us  to  the  Observatory  on  the  King's  Palace 
to  see  the  Astronomical  apparatus  of  Professor  Piazzi  who 
is  considered  the  first  in  his  line  in  Europe.  (He  has  dis- 
covered two  planets.)  We  were  well  paid  for  a  tedious 
walk;  the  apparatus  is  very  extensive  and  elegant.  One  of 
the  Telescopes  was  made  by  Ramsden  the  present  Pro- 
fessor, the  only  one  of  the  kind  ever  finished;  it  is  consid- 
ered invaluable.  It  is  situated  on  the  top  of  the  dome  of 
the  King's  Palace  (apparently),  but  actually  on  a  marble 
platform  twelve  feet  square  laid  on  a  base  of  its  size,  built 
of  large  stone  in  the  most  compact  manner  from  the 
ground:  its  height  is  upwards  of  two  hundred  feet.  There 
were  very  many  things  of  the  kind  to  interest  any  person 
who  knew  their  value  better  than  myself.  His  library  is 
very  interesting.  His  appearance  was  very  peculiar  and 
interesting.  After  having  ascended  more  than  two  hundred 


1817]  Winter  in  Sicily  25 

feet  we  were  led  by  the  Baron  to  a  Parlour  where  sat  the 
Old  Philosopher  over  a  brazier  of  coals  with  all  the  com- 
forts we  have  nearer  the  earth;  on  a  waiter  at  the  side  of 
the  room  sat  on  a  table  a  set  of  China  ware,  a  tea  set,  on 
the  right  of  which  was  a  liqueur  case;  by  the  fire  a  plain 
sofa  and  six  or  eight  chairs  distributed  about  the  room;  in 
a  recess,  his  bed  with  white  curtains  before  it;  adjoining 
this  parlour  was  his  library  and  on  the  other  side  of  a  small 
entry  back  of  the  parlour  is  his  kitchen,  where  they  were 
cooking  his  dinner.  I  should  say  he  was  about  sixty-five 
years  old,  six  feet  high,  dark  blue  eyes,  light  complexion, 
very  spare  in  his  habit ;  he  wore  a  black  robe,  his  appear- 
ance, situation  and  character  were  striking  beyond  descrip- 
tion; I  was  almost  inclined  to  think  him  one  of  the  inhab- 
itants of  the  regions  he  had  been  so  long  exploring,  or  at 
least  he  had  caught  their  Manners.  He  informed  us  that  he 
had  lived  in  that  situation  Twenty  years;  he  spoke  English 
very  well,  having  been  a  resident  in  London  several  years. 
But,  thus  far,  was  but  a  small  part  of  our  feast;  on  being 
mounted  to  this  immense  height  we  had  an  opportunity 
of  seeing  the  whole  extent  of  grounds  within  the  moun- 
tains, and  of  looking  down  on  the  City  of  Palermo  and  the 
gardens  of  the  neighbourhood.  The  garden  attached  to  the 
Palace  is  very  handsome,  and  the  Prince  Aci's  appeared  to 
great  advantage.  It  seemed  as  if  I  had  been  seeing  this 
place  and  its  environs  as  one  views  a  Panorama  made  of 
blocks,  looking  at  each  piece  separately,  but  they  were  now 
all  brought  so  as  to  be  seen  by  a  single  view.  I  have  often 
thought  since  I  have  been  in  Palermo  that  I  could  never 


26  William  Appleton  [1817 

see  anything  to  delight  me  more  than  at  that  moment;  but 
I  can  truly  say,  that  I  have  never  been  so  much  pleased  by 
any  view  as  I  have  been  this  morning.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Chabot 
&  the  Baron  dined  with  us. 

APRIL  2nd,  Wednesday.  Mr.  Chabot  &  myself  went  and 
JLm.  engaged  our  passage  in  the  Packet  for  Naples,  to 
sail  the  15th  Inst.  Thursday \  ofd.  We  went  to  the  City  early 
to  attend  the  ceremony  usual  on  this  day,  the  Commence- 
ment of  Easter.  We  went  to  the  King's  Palace  Chapel. 
Mrs.  A.  &  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Chabot  went  to  the  Hall,  where 
they  saw  the  Prince  Regent  wash  the  feet  of  twelve  beg- 
gars in  imitation  of  our  Saviour  washing  the  feet  of  His 
disciples.  The  beggars  supped  the  evening  before  with  the 
Prince,  as  did  our  Saviour  with  His  disciples  the  night  be- 
fore His  crucifixion.  The  Churches  were  dressed  in  mourn- 
ing, the  altars  illuminated,  the  people  in  the  streets  all  in 
Black.  At  twelve  o'clock  the  carriages  were  withdrawn 
from  the  streets  and  not  a  horse  was  allowed  in  the  streets 
till  Saturday  (?)  at  12  o'clock.  We  dined  at  Mr.  Chabot's 
&  slept  at  Page's.  §*K  We  were  much  amused  at  the  fair 
on  the  Marina;  the  Show  consisted  of  a  very  great  variety 
of  toys  of  a  common  kind.  Sunday,  6t/l.  We  ate  a  lunch  at 
Mr.  Chabot's  and  accompanied  them  to  the  Palace  of  the 
Prince  of  Belmonte,  about  two  miles  North  East  from 
Palermo,  on  the  side  of  Monte  Pellegrino,  abeautiful  place; 
the  Palace  is  more  genteel  and  comfortable  than  any  I 
have  before  seen;  the  grounds  laid  out  with  much  good 
taste;  it  was  built  in  six  years.  The  establishment  cost 


1817]  Winter  in  Sicily  27 

three  hundred  and  seventy-five  thousand  dollars.  8^.  Suf- 
fered considerably  with  my  face;  applied  hot  herbs:  it  is 
much  swollen.  gt/l.  My  face  confines  me  to  the  house ;  we 
applied  hot  baths  of  vinegar  to  it.  Friday,  1  \th.  Passed  a 
most  miserable  night  with  my  troublesome  face,  and  sent 
for  dentist  and  physician.  The  dentist  broke  the  boil  and 
I  felt  much  easier  by  it.  13^.  Left  Rocco  and  took  up  our 
abode  at  Page's,  preparatory  to  leaving  Sicily.  It  is  not 
without  regret  that  I  leave  the  retirement  where  I  have 
gained  more  in  ten  weeks  than  at  any  other  time  since  I 
have  been  sick.  \$th.  Went  to  Rocco  to  take  a  final  leave. 
The  Brig  "Brothers"  sailed  for  Boston;  on  it  we  sent  home 
some  of  our  baggage.  Wednesday,  16^.  Went  with  Mr.  & 
Mrs.  Chabot  to  the  Palace  of  the  Prince  Belmonte,  which 
is  more  extensive  than  any  I  have  seen  in  Palermo,  and 
some  of  the  apartments  and  furniture  more  elegant.  It  is 
built  so  as  to  form  three  sides  of  a  square,  and  on  the  fourth 
is  the  garden.  This  palace  contains  sixty-four  rooms  on  a 
floor;  three  stories  high.  The  lower  part  is  used  for  Carriage 
horses,  Stables,  etc.  The  stables  elegant;  there  are  sixty 
stalls  separated  by  Marble  Pillars  which  in  America  we 
should  think  would  adorn  our  Churches  or  other  Publick 
buildings.  The  Prince's  establishment  in  the  way  of  horses 
is  very  great ;  he  keeps  more  than  fifty.  I  think  this  Palace 
on  the  three  sides  must  show  a  front  of  six  hundred  feet. 
One  of  the  Parlours  struck  me  as  being  beautiful,  and  ad- 
joining it  is  a  sleeping-room  which  pleased  me  more  than 
anything  of  the  kind  we  saw,  but  I  must  try  and  remember 
its  appearance,  as  I  cannot  describe  it.  The  furniture  was 


28  William  Appleton  [1817 

superb,  the  Walls  were  covered  with  sky  blue  satin,  the 
Chair  Cushions  of  the  same,  the  chairs  of  Ebony;  the  Cur- 
tains like  the  satin  on  the  walls;  the  room  40  by  36  feet, 
Arched,  &  elegant  figures  overhead.  There  were  four  Ele- 
gant Glasses,  one  on  each  side  and  ends  of  the  room,  the 
Plate  about  1  o  feet  in  length,  the  whole  ornamented  with 
a  variety  of  ornaments,  his  Arms  &  Crest  on  many  pieces 
of  furniture.  The  bedroom  had  all  the  conveniences  one 
could  imagine,  and  I  am  told  it  is  not  occupied  as  he  and 
his  lady  have  separate  establishments,  but  neither  lives  in 
this  Palace.  His  income  is  $200,000  per  Annum,  but  it 
is  worthy  of  remark  that  this  man  has  been  reduced  to 
nothing  within  a  few  years.  His  estate  in  Spain  confiscated 
by  Jos.  Bonaparte,  in  Naples  by  Murat,  in  Sicily  by  the 
King,  and  he  twice  condemned  to  death,  and  once  reprieved 
by  the  influence  of  his  friends'  money  when  on  the  spot 
of  Execution.  He  has  his  estates  again  now.  So  the  world 
goes.  Thursday,  \*]th.  Walked  with  my  wife  on  the  Marina, 
took  a  little  cold,  drank  too  much  coffee,  and  found  my- 
self very  sick  at  night ;  an  attack  of  the  cholera  morbus. 
Friday,  i8M.  Laid  in  bed  most  of  the  day.  Dr.  Patranagio 
came  to  see  me  twice.  Sunday,  10th.  Still  waiting  for  a  fair 
wind  to  sail  for  Naples.  We  went  into  the  garden  of  Prince 
Valamosa,  one  of  the  prettiest  I  have  seen;  in  many  re- 
spects superior  to  any.  It  is  neat  beyond  description 
and  the  walks  very  handsome.  We  went  to  the  Church 
S.  Francisco  di  Paolo,  this  being  that  Saint's  day.  Church  is 
dressed  for  illumination.  We  get  a  little  tired  waiting  for 
the  packet.  Tuesday,  IInd.  We  are  told  the  packet  is  to  sail 


1817]  Winter  in  Sicily  29 

this  evening,  but  no  dependence  can  be  placed  on  what 
you  hear  in  this  place.  I  shall  leave  Palermo  not  without 
some  regret,  but  very  little;  I  think  the  inhabitants  very 
mean  &  selfish  and  old  in  all  sorts  of  iniquity,  and  I  can 
hardly  believe  a  man  honest  that  has  lived  long  with  them. 
You  see  in  everyone  a  disposition  to  take  advantage  of 
you  from  the  highest  to  the  lowest.  Their  trade  seems 
small,  and  their  Ideas  contracted,  but  for  beauty,  the  coun- 
try cannot  be  exceeded.  Of  extravagance  we  see  much,  of 
wretchedness  the  streets  are  crowded,  and  to  show  their 
infamy,  their  Prisons  are  running  over.  When  a  criminal 
is  tried  he  has  not  the  privilege  of  a  juror,  or  of  hearing 
his  trial ;  he  is  taken  up,  put  in  prison  and  in  due  time  he 
is  either  waited  on  with  a  release  or  by  the  hangman;  they 
say  this  depends  on  how  much  money  he  has,  but  they 
never  execute  anyone  till  his  money  is  expended.  In  their 
Courts  of  Law,  all  seems  to  depend  on  who  will  fee  the 
judges  most,  yet  they  pretend  to  say  that  it  is  dishonourable 
to  take  bribes  from  both  parties;  it  seems  there  is  much 
litigation  in  this  place,  very  many  lawyers  fully  employed 
but  badly  paid;  everybody  works  cheap  for  Sicilians,  but 
they  expect  much  more  from  strangers.  A  Physician  pays 
a  visit  for  two  lires,  or  a  first  rate  one  four,  yet  they  ex- 
pect 10  or  12  from  a  foreigner.  In  a  coffee  shop  they  will 
charge  a  Sicilian  three  grains,  or  J^  cent  for  a  cup  of 
coffee,  but  a  foreigner  they  manage  to  get  about  ten  from, 
by  giving  a  larger  cup,  and  offering  him  bread  whether 
he  eats  or  not,  all  the  same.  But  there  is  this  satisfaction — 
that  they  treat  you  with  politeness,  while  they  cheat  your 


30  William  Appleton  [1817 

teeth  out  of  your  head  if  possible.  You  are  sure  to  have 
your  Pockets  overhauled  if  you  go  to  a  public  place.  Ser- 
vants all  dishonest  is  the  general  opinion. 


s* 


r~o-m.    a 


/v/A^ru.^ciXLi^~e. 


DIARY  JOTTINGS:  1818-1836 

1818 

JANUARY,  Charleston.  I  should  not  deserve  the  name 
of  Christian  did  I  not  feel  grateful  to  Heaven  for  my 
present  blessings  and  past  favours.  Twelve  months 
since,  I  had  little  right  to  expect  to  see  this  day,  and  so 
much  health  as  I  now  enjoy  I  hardly  dreamed  of.  When  I 
reflect  on  the  past  year  and  recollect  that  I  have  passed  over 
four  thousand  miles  of  land  and  as  much  by  water  without 
accident,  that  I  have  been  raised  from  the  weakest  situa- 
tion to  which  the  human  frame  is  capable  of  being  reduced 
and  recover  from,  I  ask  myself,  Why  is  this?  How  can  I 
be  useful  to  myself  or  my  fellow  creatures  that  it  should 
please  Heaven  thus  to  spare  me?  I  am  not  able  to  say  why 
it  is  so,  nor  do  I  find  that  grateful  heart  within  my  bosom 
that  I  should  expect  to  find  in  one  situated  like  myself. 
I  cannot  say  that  I  think  my  improvement  in  mind  is  to 
be  compared  with  that  of  the  body.  I  do  flatter  myself  that 
I  am  less  irritable  than  I  was  a  year  since,  and  I  hope  less 
envious,  but  I  have  not  had  any  trials  of  my  disposition  of 
late.  When  I  for  a  moment  think  what  has  passed  within  a 
year  my  sensations  are  indescribable.  I  feel  as  if  I  had  been 
hurled  through  the  ethereal  regions  from  clime  to  clime.  I 
can  hardly  realize  that  I  have  been  in  Sicily,  Italy,  Switzer- 
land, France  and  England,  and,  now,  in  my  native  Country 
in  the  same  year;  but  when  I  look  at  the  year  past  I  have 
no  doubt  in  concluding  that  it  has  been  the  most  interest- 


32  William  Appleton  [1818 

ing  of  my  life  thus  far,  and  there  is  not  much  probability 
there  will  be  any  as  much  so.  My  business  concerns  have 
equalled  my  expectations,  I  am  quite  as  well  as  to  prop- 
erty now  as  a  year  since;  my  future  prospects  are  much 
better,  I  have  a  prospect  of  health  that  I  had  not  a  year 
since.  I  have  a  hope  of  returning  soon  to  my  dear  friends, 
I  am  sure  I  have  many  who  are  much  interested  for  me. 
My  good  Wife  is  happy  and  deservedly  so;  she  is  all  that 
any  reasonable  man  could  wish,  ever  finding  friends  and 
so  fortunate  as  to  have  no  enemies.  I  have  been  better 
satisfied  with  her  the  last  year  in  troubles  and  anxieties 
than  in  prosperity;  she  has  strong  powers  of  mind  not 
brought  into  action  on  common  occasions;  take  her  all  in 
all,  her  husband  and  friends  have  cause  to  be  proud  of  her. 


1822 

MARCH  24^.  I  attended  church  at  St.  Paul's  this 
morning  and  heard  an  interesting  sermon  from  Dr. 
Jarvis  on  self  examination.  My  feelings  were  that  from 
time  to  time  I  would  follow  his  advice  of  reflecting  on  the 
past  transactions  and  endeavour  to  correct  my  faults  by 
acknowledging  them  to  myself.  25^.  Much  occupied  in 
attending  to  get  forward  the  Columbian  Bank.  Passed  the 
evening  with  a  Whist  Party  at  Mr.  Amory's.  Was  struck 
by  the  power  the  Catholick  Priests  have  over  their  People. 
Our  servant  Peter  came  to  me  on  my  return  at  night  and 
said  he  had  something  to  communicate  to  me;  that  his 
Priest  told  him  that  until  he  made  known  to  me  certain 


1822]  Diary  Jottings  33 

thefts  made  by  another  servant  he  would  not  give  him 
absolution;  I  must  acknowledge  I  felt  very  small  that  I 
had  not,  nor  no  one  on  earth,  such  power  to  controul  me 
as  this  servant  has;  I  am  quite  disposed  to  turn  Catholick. 
26^.  The  effect  of  my  last  night's  dissipation  I  feel  con- 
siderably and  will  endeavour  to  avoid  keeping  so  late 
hours.  The  day  is  very  beautiful.  I  have  been  engaged  in 
business  but  nothing  in  particular  transpired  to  give  pain 
or  pleasure.  27^.  I  find  myself  continually  too  much  in- 
clined to  sport  a  little  with  the  feelings  of  others,  not  so 
much  from  bad  feeling  as  a  desire  to  show  playfulness; 
much  inclined  to  severity,  and  sometimes  without  a  strict 
regard  to  facts.  My  mind  is  very  much  bent  on  making 
money,  more  than  securing  temporal  friends  or  lasting 
peace.  29^.  I  dined  this  day  with  Mr.  Nathan  Appleton, 
a  party  of  twenty-two.  I  seldom  have  a  pleasanter  time, 
but  almost  always  find  I  have  something  to  regret  when  I 
pass  the  day  in  a  large  party. 

APRIL  2nd.  Passed  the  evening  in  helping  Mrs.  N. 
ii  Appleton  get  her  Notes  prepared  for  her  Party.  yd. 
Attended  Ward  Meeting.  "Triton"  arrived;  forty-nine 
days  from  Liverpool.  \th.  I  feel  that  I  am  quite  eaten  up 
with  business;  while  in  Church,  my  mind  with  all  the  ex- 
ertion I  endeavoured  to  make,  was  flying  from  City  to  City, 
from  Ship  to  Ship  and  from  Speculation  to  Speculation. 
6t/l.  Attended  the  caucus  for  Mayor  and  Aldermen  at  the 
Exchange.  Principal  speakers,  John  Lowell,  Col.  Perkins 
and  Mr.  Webster.  jf/l.  Our  Sarah  Elizabeth  was  christened 


34  William  Appleton  [1822 

with  a  Child  of  Mr.  Shimmin's;  the  ceremony  was  very 
solemn.  May  we  be  enabled  to  fulfil  the  promises  then 
made !  Sth.  This  day  we  met  for  the  purpose  of  choosing 
City  Officers;  Mr.  Otis  &  Quincy  Candidates  for  Mayor; 
no  choice.  1  oth.  Purchased  the  right  of  use  of  water  at  the 
Mill  dam  for  ten  power,  so  called.  This  purchase  I  made 
in  consequence  of  Mr.  Ebenezer  Francis  saying  to  me  that 
if  I  would  go  and  make  the  purchase  he  could  use  it  in 
such  a  way  as  to  make  it  profitable  and  that  I  might  or 
not  be  known  to  be  interested  in  the  mode  he  used  it,  and 
that  he  would  give  me  the  half  of  the  profits.  I  purchased 
ten;  Mr.  Gray  to  have  four.  He  &  I  each  are  not  to  pre- 
vent the  other  from  purchasing  more  of  the  Corporation, 
but  are  not  to  allow  them  to  sell  any  more  without  our 
consent  for  two  years.  1  Ith.  Mrs.  N.  Appleton  had  a  large 
tea  party  and  very  splendid  it  was;  some  two  hundred  to 
250  persons;  all  went  off  well.  13^.  "  Champion"  arrived. 
\$th.  This  day  I  have  been  very  much  engaged  in  differ- 
ent kinds  of  business,  and  attending  to  the  Bank  Building, 
which  is  a  hobby  with  me.  Sold  Mr.  Perkins  my  interest  in 
the  "  Rasselas  "  &  bought  his  in  the  "  Champion."  1 6th.  Called 
on  Dr.  Jarvis  and  told  him  that  until  our  Church  could 
pay  their  expenses  without  borrowing  money  I  would  give 
nothing  to  missionaries.  20/7/.  I  was  appointed  committee 
of  finance  for  the  Columbian  Bank.  My  intention  is  to  give 
much  time  to  the  ...business,  and  in  all  transactions  for  the 
institution,  to  pursue  such  a  course  as  will  bear  the  strict- 
est examination.  2yd.  Dined  this  day  at  Col.  Apthorp's,  a 
large  &  pleasant  Party.  I  find  much  difficulty  in  prevent- 


1822]  Diary  Jottings  35 

ing  a  quarrel  between  Mr.  P.  and  myself;  his  observations 
are  un-courteous  and  unjust.  I  am  at  a  loss  as  to  what  course 
to  pursue. 

MAY  Ist.  This  day  the  City  Charter  took  effect;  some 
little  parade  in  making  the  Mayor,  etc.  "  Mercury" 
arrived  from  Liverpool.  \th.  I  feel  much  indisposed  from 
dissipation,  not  fatigue;  I  must  do  better  or  get  done  up.  8M. 
Much  engaged  in  business;  the  "Jasper  "  arrd  from  Liver- 
pool. \1th.  Passed  the  evening  at  Mr.  Amory's,  Genmn  & 
Mrs.  Sullivan  were  with  us.  \§th.  Engaged  in  preparing 
to  go  to  New  York.  16^.  Left  for  New  York:  arrived 
New  London  at  8  O'Clock.  17^.  Left  New  London  at  6 
O'Clock  —  unpleasant  from  east  wind,  confined  below. 
i8M.  Arrived  New  York  at  7  O'C.  Attended  to  my  busi- 
ness; left  for  Philadelphia  at  3  o'clock.  Upset  in  the  Stage 
at  10  at  night  without  injury.  Arrived  at  Trenton  at  two 
o'clock:  left  for  Philadelphia  at  6.  19^.  Took  passage  in 
Steamboat  at  six  O'Clock.  Arrived  at  10.  Attended  Bishop 
White's  Church.  20^.  At  2  O'Clock  left  in  steamboat  for 
New  York,  slept  at  Spotsworth,  the  worst  place  I  was  ever 
in.  1VK  Arrived  at  12  in  New  York,  attended  to  my  busi- 
ness; dined  with  Mr.  Lenox,  went  to  Mr.  Prince's,  returned 
at  1 1  O'Clock.  22*<  Left  in  Steamboat  at  6  O'C. — arrived 
New  Haven  2  O'Clock.  23^.  Left  New  London  at  4 
O'Clock,  arrived  Boston  at  9  O'C.  24A  Full  of  Business: 
found  all  well.  25^.  Mr.  Walker,  J.  G.  Appleton  and  N. 
Appleton  dined  with  us.  27^.  Much  excitement  in  the 
business  world  by  the  failure  of  Capt.  Bush,  Silas  Bullard 


36  William  Appleton  [1822 

and  some  others.  28^.  Much  distress  for  money,  I  am  quite 
sick  of  the  Mercantile  business,  and  particularly  of  pur- 
chasing Notes.  29^.  General  Election.  30^.  I  find  myself 
quite  fidgety.  F.Welch  acknowledges  himself  a  Bankrupt. 
I  expect  it  will  prove  abad  Business.  31^.  At  Mrs.  Amory's, 
a  party  of  Children,  very  pleasant;  then  at  Mrs.  Peter 
Parker's,  where  we  met  a  small  but  pleasant  party. 

JUNE  3r<  Artillery  Election,  a  very  great  assemblage 
of  people  on  the  Common.  5^.  Our  mercantile  com- 
munity are  so  much  harassed  as  to  make  me  feel  as  if  I 
wished  myself  anything  but  a  Merchant.  7th.  I  am  so  much 
excited  by  my  business  concerns  that  I  have  very  little 
pleasure.  8t/l.  Dined  at  Mr.  Amory's  with  Mr.  Gold,  Mr. 
Wm.  Sullivan,  Mr.  Tilden,  Mr.  N.  Appleton,  very  pleas- 
ant party.  Mr.  Loring  is  preparing  to  go  to  Canada.  The 
distress  among  our  Merchants  continues;  money  is  very 
difficult  to  be  obtained ;  first  rate  notes  at  four  months  can 
be  sold  at  double  interest.  10^.  People  seem  to  be  getting 
more  quiet;  the  failures  appear  to  have  ceased.  My  Wife 
is  much  troubled  for  a  nurse;  she  has  now  in  the  House 
a  most  infamous  Huzzy.  iV&.  Sent  to  Tewksbury  for  a 
Nurse.  Much  engaged  in  Business.  Mr.  Ludlow  failed. 
\$th.  Meeting  of  Committee  of  Bangor  Bank.  Madam 
Amory  very  low,  will  not  last  many  days.  18^.  Elizabeth 
Coffin  Amory *  departed  for  unknown  regions  this  morn- 
ing. Her  life  has  been  long,  82  Years.  In  Youth  she  was 

1  Mrs.  Thomas  Amory,  mother  of  Mrs.  Appleton's  step-father,  Mr.  Jonathan 
Amory. 


1822]  Diary  Jottings  37 

beautiful;  in  middle  age,  useful;  at  the  close  of  life,  beloved 
and  much  respected.  She  was  a  lady  of  unusual  politeness 
of  manners,  graceful  and  neat  in  her  dress  and  Household 
establishment  to  a  proverb.  She  leaves  three  sons,  three 
daughters,  and  about  fifty  Grand  and  Great-Grandchil- 
dren.  Mr.  Bachi,  an  Italian,  dined  with  us;  he  is  a  native 
of  Palermo  and  absconded  from  his  native  place  on  ac- 
count of  being  concerned  in  a  plot  against  the  government. 
10th.  Attended  the  funeral  of  Madam  Amory.  If  death 
is  under  any  circumstance  pleasant,  it  must  be  when  an 
aged  Christian  resigns  her  Soul  to  her  Maker.  The  distress 
among  the  mercantile  community  has  almost  sickened 
me  of  business.  IInd,  Left  to  visit  my  good  Mother;  slept 
at  Chelmsford.  My  reflections  not  pleasant,  I  feel  much 
anxiety  in  going  to  my  Mother's.  23r<  Arr^  Mount  Ver- 
non, my  Mother  much  pleased  to  see  me ;  her  health  better 
than  when  I  last  saw  her.  24A  Most  delightful  rain.  Rode 
to  Groton,  left  my  horse  &  Chaise,  &  took  the  Stage  to 
Concord,  where  I  found  Mrs.  Amory1  and  others.  Returned 
with  them  to  Acton,  where  we  slept.  25^.  We  left  Acton  at 
y2  past  seven  o'clock  and  went  to  Lancaster  to  dine.  We 
found  the  ride  from  Groton  to  Lancaster  very  delightful  — 
Mrs.  Amory  rode  in  the  Chaise  with  me.  We  found  a  com- 
fortable Hotel  and  arrd  at  Worcester  at  evening,  where  we 
slept  very  well  accommodated.  lbth.  I  left  my  friends  and 
made  my  way  to  Boston.  I  find  it  pleasant  to  get  home 
again  and  find  all  well.  30^.  We  had  a  sermon  on  the  rise 
of  our  Church,2  this  being  the  anniversary  of  the  dedication 

1  Mrs.  Appleton's  mother.  8  St.  Paul's,  afterwards  the  pro-Cathedral. 


38  William  Appleton  [1822 

of  the  Church  two  years  since,  when  25  families  only  be- 
longed to  the  Church;  last  year  there  were  80,  and  now 
128. 

JULY  2nd.  Rode  with  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Sam*  &  Louisa  Ap- 
pleton to  Mr.  Francis',  where  we  were  much  pleased 
with  their  farming  establishment.  St/l.  Mrs.  Amory's  family 
removed  to  the  Cottage  at  Watertown.  9^.  Mrs.  Apple- 
ton  rode  with  me  to  see  her  Mother  at  her  new  residence. 
1 1  M.The  "  Rasselas"  arrivd.  Col.  Caldwell  a  passenger;  he, 
Mr.  Jona  Amory  &  N.  Amory  dined  with  us.  i6M.  Went 
with  Miss  Cutler,1  Miss  Dexter  and  Miss  Sullivan  to 
George's  Island,2  a  very  pleasant  sail  we  had.  lJtA.  Rode 
to  Watertown  with  Mrs.  Appleton;  Mrs.  Amory  we  find 
very  pleasantly  situated.  20^.  Went  to  the  Island  to  see 
Miss  Cutler,  passed  the  Sunday  there;  it  was  very  pleasant 
although  very  hot  in  the  city. 

1831 

DECEMBER  31".  This  year  has  been  one  of  unpre- 
cedented prosperity  in  this  Country,  and  particularly 
so  to  enterprising  Merchants  and  Manufacturers.  Well 
managed  Manufacturing  establishments  of  Wool  &  Cot- 
ton, where  two-thirds  of  their  Capital  is  invested  in  Real 
Estate  and  Machinery,  have  earned  twenty  per  Cent  on 
the  whole  Capital.  The  rate  of  Interest  has  been  low,  gen- 
erally at  five  per  Cent  at  the  Banks ;  at  this  moment  they 

1  Mrs.  Appleton's  sister.  *  Now  occupied  by  Fort  Warren. 


1832]  Diary  Jottings  39 

get  six  per  Cent  owing  to  a  demand  from  N.  York.  Not  less 
than  eight  millions  of  Southern  paper  is  held  in  Boston. 

I  am  not  very  well  satisfied  with  myself;  my  prejudices 
are  very  strong.  I  feel  as  if  others  who  are  in  a  degree  de- 
pendent on  me  should  be  governed  by  my  feelings  more 
than  I  ought.  I  have  considerable  to  contend  with,  but  I 
ought  to  soar  above  trifles.  As  to  my  dealings  with  others 
I  am  quite  satisfied  with  myself;  I  have  no  temptation  to 
make  a  hard  bargain,  except  the  pride  of  having  done 
better  than  others.  I  do  not  feel  anxious  to  make  money 
for  the  sake  of  having  it,  and  should  as  soon  spend  my 
whole  income  as  not  if  I  could  do  it  with  a  belief  that  it 
would  do  more  good  than  harm. 

[//  was  here  in  the  Diary  that  the  sketch  made  by  Mr,  Appleton  of  his 
early  life  was  written .] 


1832 

1AM  much  gratified  by  the  very  numerous  calls  from 
my  friends  during  my  indisposition,  which  has  been 
rather  protracted;  for  three  months  I  have  not  been  able 
to  attend  much  to  business  or  to  go  to  Church.  I  am  now 
about  making  arrangements  to  go  to  Charleston  in  the  Ship 
"Dover."  I  expect  to  be  materially  benefited  by  the  Voyage 
&  journey  home.  My  complaint  is  from  having  the  influ- 
enza which  produced  a  Cough  and  after  several  colds  I 
find  I  cannot  go  into  the  cold  air  without  suffering.  I  be- 
lieve my  Lungs  free  from  disease  and  as  strong  as  any  part 


40  William  Appleton  [1832 

of  me;  but  should  my  expectations  not  be  realized  I  have 
made  all  the  arrangements  as  to  property  that  I  think  are 
necessary. 

In  March  I  sailed  for  Charleston  and  returned  in  June. 
The  object  for  which  I  went,  accomplished,  my  health 
being  nearly  as  good  as  usual.  The  summer  was  mostly 
passed  at  Nahant,  a  place  I  think  very  conducive  to  my 
health,  but  circumstances,  not  entirely  within  my  controul, 
led  me  to  sell  the  Cottage1  I  have  occupied  with  much 
pleasure  and  benefit.  We  experienced  considerable  excite- 
ment in  apprehension  from  Cholera,  but  Boston  has  suf- 
fered very  little  from  it.  On  my  return  from  the  South, 
under  the  idea  that  property  generally  was  rather  likely  to 
decline,  I  sold  off  my  Manu  &  Rail  Road  Stocks  to  a  com- 
fortable amount,  which  proved  a  good  calculation. 

JANUARY  i".  At  this  time  everything  is  very  dull. 
We  are  apprehending  a  destruction  of  the  Protecting 
system  to  quiet  South  Carolina  Nullification.  I  have  full 
confidence  in  our  Lowell  Stocks,  yet  I  am  not  willing  to 
increase  my  interest  materially  in  them,  as  I  am  not  anx- 
ious to  gain  Property,  but  very  unwilling  to  lessen  what 
I  possess.  I  have  lately  been  appointed  President  of  the 
United  States  Bank  in  this  City,  which  will  take  up  some 
of  my  time  and  prevent  my  doing  so  much  business  as  I 
otherwise  might.  My  intention  is  to  keep  my  affairs  within 

1  Still  standing,  on  Swallow's  Cave  Road. 


l%33~]  Diary  Jottings  41 

compass,  not  to  owe  much  money.  I  do  not  believe  they 
will  alter  the  Tariff  this  year,  and  if  they  do,  it  will  not 
injure  the  Cotton  establishments  at  Lowell.  The  Prints  it 
will  destroy  and  the  woolens.  Nullification  will  come  to 
nothing,  yet  they  may  possibly  make  a  little  fight  in  South 
Carolina,  but  I  much  doubt  it,  as  the  Presl's  Proclamation 
will  get  there  in  time,  I  fancy,  to  give  them  a  chance  to 
retreat  with  honour.  They  are  a  fine  set  of  fellows  and  will 
not  disgrace  themselves. 

FEBRUARY  10^.  Our  Mrs.  Nathan  Appleton1  died. 
She  was  a  woman  of  uncommon  talents,  with  more  ac- 
complishments than  most  ladies  possess,  much  celebrated 
for  her  beauty;  possessed  the  kindest  feelings,  willing  to 
make  every  sacrifice  to  promote  the  comfort  of  others; 
with  qualifications  that  ought  to  have  made  her  the  hap- 
piest among  the  happy,  yet  her  standard  appeared,  un- 
fortunately, too  high;  she  could  not  do  as  much  for  her 
friends  as  she  wished;  she  did  not  make  the  most  of  the 
luxuries  that  surrounded  her,  but  rather  felt  or  appeared 
as  if  something  was  wanting  which  made  her  less  happy 
and  useful.  But  she  died  in  full  (as  I  believe  well  founded) 
hope  that  she  had  an  interest  in  Him  who  died  to  save 
repented  sinners.  Her  age  was  forty-six  in  November  last. 

APRIL.  Eben  Appleton,  my  much  esteemed  Cousin, 
Jl\.  died.  He  was  one  of  the  most  popular  men  I  ever 
knew;  he  was  deserving  of  the  goodwill  of  his  friends  and 

1  Mother  of  Mrs.  Henry  W.  Longfellow  and  Mr.  Tom  Appleton. 


42  William  Appleton  [!833 

acquaintances;  his  talents  were  far  above  a  common  order; 
he  was  rather  playful  than  otherwise,  better  calculated  for 
a  literary  life  than  that  of  a  Merchant.  His  age  was  forty- 
eight. 


j 


ULY  27^.  We  have  an  addition  to  our  family  of  a  fine 
boy;  we  call  him  Charles  Hook.1 


1834 

JANUARY.  The  last  has  been  a  year  of  general  pros- 
perity to  our  Merchants,  Manufacturers  and  the  Coun- 
try generally.  In  the  latter  part  of  the  year  our  affairs 
have  been  deranged  by  an  unnecessary  war  between  the 
Government  and  the  United  States  Banks.  It  will  end  with- 
out very  much  harm.  The  Country  is  Rich  and,  notwith- 
standing we  have  done  too  much  business,  we  can  bear  the 
checks  which  will  grow  out  of  the  reduction  of  the  debt 
due  the  U.  S.  Banks.  I  think  the  Bank  will  be  compelled 
to  close  its  concerns;  I  think,  like  most  great  moneyed 
Institutions,  the  Managers  feel  their  power  more  than  they 
should,  or  they  think  they  have  more  power  than  they 
have.  The  business  of  this  Branch  is  conducted  on  inde- 
pendent, fair  principles,  and  I  trust  our  direction  would 
submit  to  no  other.  Property  has  not  fallen  in  consequence 
of  the  scarcity  of  money,  nor  have  there  been  any  failures. 

1  The  1  oth  and  last  child.  Names  of  children  in  order  of  birth :  William  Sullivan ; 
James  Amory;  Mary  Ann;  Sarah  Elizabeth;  Francis  Henry;  Joseph  Warren, 
changed  to  William;  Edward,  died  young;  Harriett  Cutler;  Hetty  Sullivan; 
Charles  Hook. 


1834]  Diary  Jottings  43 

Yet  there  must  be  many;  among  the  good  business  there 
has  been  bad,  and  many  persons  are  extended,  who  have 
but  small  property.  As  to  my  property,  I  have  not  made 
up  my  Books;  my  impression  is  that  on  a  fair  valuation  I 
have  fifty  thousand  dollars  more  than  a  year  since.  I  owe 
more  money  than  I  intended  to  at  the  beginning  of  the 
year,  and  from  present  appearances  I  may  do  considerable 
business  the  year  to  come.  I  think  money  will  be  made 
on  Cotton.  I  should  extend  myself  more  in  shipments  but 
I  am  afraid  of  getting  too  much  connected  with  Foreign 
Houses.  My  health  has  been  very  good.  I  ride  every  morn- 
ing from  y2  past  6  to  y2  past  7  o'clock.  I  drink  no  wine; 
I  find  an  important  benefit  from  giving  it  up. 

MARCH.  I  have  just  returned  from  Philadelphia, 
where  I  went  by  the  request  of  the  Directors  of  the 
U.  S.  Bank  to  get  additional  means  for  the  Office  in  this 
place.  My  business  was  to  state  to  the  Managers  of  the 
Bank  that  I  would  not  hold  the  situation  I  had  unless  we 
had  controul  of  the  business  in  this  city,  and  a  Capital  not 
to  be  withdrawn;  in  short,  that  I  would  not  be  the  tool  of 
any  set  of  men.  I  found  them,  Messrs.  Biddle  &  Jaudon, 
quite  prepared  to  meet  my  views;  I  doubt  not  they  were 
fully  apprised  of  my  intentions,  as  I  had  communicated 
them  to  Mr.  Frothingham  but  to  no  other  person.  I  got 
the  funds  required  and  a  promise  that  I  might  do  anything 
I  pleased  in  the  relation  to  the  Office  in  Boston.  Sunday, 
16^.  I  am  going  tomorrow  with  Wm  to  see  my  good 
Mother  who  I  apprehend  will  not  live  long.  Sunday,  2yd. 


44  William  Appleton  [^34 

We  had  a  very  pleasant  journey  to  Mount  Vernon.  I 
found  my  dear  Mother  much  better  than  I  feared  and  I 
trust  she  may  yet  live  years;  her  example  to  her  Children, 
for  us,  as  a  Christian  should  be  invaluable. 

JUNE  8/A.  I  fell  from  my  Horse  and  broke  my  collar 
bone  which  confined  me  to  the  house  some  days,  and 
I  was  weeks  without  my  usual  exercise.  By  the  advice  of 
Dr.  Warren  I  changed  my  diet  to  vegetables,  which  I 
found  beneficial. 

JULY  25^.  Returned  yesterday  from  a  pleasant  excur- 
sion to  the  White  Mountains  with  Dr.,  Mrs.,  &  Miss 
Warren,  Mrs.  Grant,  Miss  Scollay  and  my  son  Amory. 

1835 

JANUARY.  The  year  just  closed  has  been  an  eventful 
one  to  the  Mercantile  community,  much  fluctuation 
took  place  in  consequence  of  the  difficulty  between  the 
Government  and  the  Banks  of  the  United  States. 

Our  Country  is  prosperous  beyond  all  calculation,  yet 
the  traders  have  many  of  them  lost  money  the  past  year. 
The  China  Voyages  have  been  very  bad;  Coffee  has  been 
a  very  losing  article;  Hides  &  Sugar  from  South  America 
have  cost  more  than  they  would  sell  for  in  Europe.  The 
Calcutta  business  has  been  bad.  Indigo  sold  for  a  loss  of 
fifty  to  a  hundred  dollars  a  case.  Cotton  is  worth  four  cents 
more  per  lb.  than  a  year  since;  I  think  the  price  now  too 


1836]  Diary  Jottings  45 

high,  being  from  fifteen  to  seventeen  cents.  There  may  be 
much  speculation  in  the  article  through  the  year,  but  I 
think  it  a  dangerous  article  to  purchase  at  present  prices. 
Manufacturing  business  has  been  good,  the  profits  on  good 
establishments  equal  to  about  double  interest. 

My  business  has  been  extensive  and  the  results  good 
compared  with  my  neighbours:  my  property  I  fancy  is 
worth  twenty-five  to  thirty  thousand  dollars  more  than  a 
year  since.  My  family  and  incidental  expenses  amount  to 
about  fifteen  thousand  dollars.  I  want  no  man's  money,  but 
it  gives  me  an  unpleasant  sensation  to  have  others  more 
successful  than  myself.  These  are  feelings  I  am  ashamed 
of  and  I  endeavour  to  correct  them.  It  is  mean  and  unac- 
countable that  our  desire  for  property  or  power  is  so  great, 
when  we  reflect  on  the  entire  uselessness  of  it  for  the  little 
time  which  we  can  remain  with  it. 


1836 

JANUARY  Ist.  The  year  past  has  been  one  of  unpar- 
alleled prosperity.  Almost  every  description  of  property 
has  advanced  in  price,  and  the  produce  of  our  Country  has 
been  high  in  foreign  markets,  which  has  enabled  us  to 
pay  for  the  large  amount  of  specie  imported  the  preced- 
ing year.  At  present,  money  is  worth  from  eight  to  ten  per 
cent  for  business  paper.  My  belief  is  that  the  coming  year 
will  be  less  prosperous  than  usual.  I  do  not  anticipate  any 
great  disaster,  yet  I  feel  that  many  kinds  of  goods  are  high 
and  that  we  shall  have  some  failures  growing  out  of  the 


46  William  Appleton  [1836 

extensive  speculations  of  the  last  year;  I  allude  to  eastern 
lands  and  fancy  Stocks.  Our  commerce  is  extended  very 
much  and  the  importations  from  China  &  other  places 
beyond  the  Cape  are  likely  to  be  greater  than  the  usual 
consumption,  yet  I  do  not  expect  very  heavy  losses.  My 
business  has  been  more  extensive  than  I  intended  at  the 
commencement  of  the  year,  and  more  profitable  than  in 
any  former  year;  I  suppose  my  property  worth  a  Hundred 
thousand  dollars  more  than  at  the  commencement.  We 
have  been  in  our  family  particularly  Blessed  with  health, 
and  if  we  have  not  been  happy  it  has  been  our  own  fault. 
We  have  had  some  anxiety  on  account  of  Amory's  health 
in  the  early  part  of  the  year,  but  for  the  last  few  months  he 
has  been  quite  well  and  in  his  habits  everything  we  could 
wish.  Our  dear  William  we  were  quite  afraid  was  losing 
his  health  which  led  to  his  taking  a  voyage  to  Europe 
with  Mr.  Nathan  Appleton's  family.  His  sufferings  by  the 
Neurosis  endeared  him  to  us,  and  his  good  conduct  has 
made  him  a  great  favourite  with  all  his  acj^u^mtances. 
We  shall  expect  to  hear  of  the  arrival  of  the  "Francis  De- 
pau,"  in  which  he  sailed,  soon.  At  the  commencement  of 
the  past  year  I  made  to  myself  promises  of  improvement. 
My  transactions  with  my  fellow  beings  I  am  satisfied  with, 
but  by  no  means  so  with  myself  to  my  Maker.  My  mind 
is  much,  quite  too  much,  engrossed  in  business,  not  so 
much  for  the  love  of  money  as  an  unaccountable  desire  for 
business  success.  I  fear  it  will  be  my  ruin.  I  try  to  devote 
some  time  everyday  to  the  all  important  subject,  my  future 
existence,  but  when  I  get  into  the  vortex  of  business  I  find 


1836]  Diary  Jottings  47 

my  mind  so  much  engrossed  that  I  can  hardly  free  it  when 
I  return  to  my  family  or  even  on  the  Sabbath.  If  I  had 
more  communication  with  Religious  people  I  think  it 
would  be  better  for  me.  My  views  of  Religion  are  differ- 
ent from  those  of  all  my  acquaintances  on  some  points. 

I  believe  it  was  intended  by  our  Maker  that  we  should 
be  progressive  beings,  use  and  enjoy  all  He  gave  us,  and 
our  happiness  would  increase  daily;  that  what  promotes 
the  happiness  of  mankind  promotes  our  individual  good. 
I  believe  the  great  stumbling  block  is  selfishness,  that  in- 
stead of  endeavouring  to  promote  the  happiness  of  our 
fellow  creatures  we  are  absorbed  in  the  immediate  gratifi- 
cation of  our  own  passions;  I  pray  Almighty  God  that  the 
ensuing  year  I  may  live  more  in  accordance  with  my  early 
education  than  heretofore. 

DECEMBER.  The  first  half  of  the  present  year  passed 
without  any  unusual  solicitude.  The  health  of  the 
different  members  of  our  family  was  good.  Our  accounts 
from  William  and  those  who  were  with  him  led  us  to  be- 
lieve his  strength  was  returning;  we  indulged  fond  hopes 
that  he  would  return  to  us  in  the  Autumn  in  good  health. 
In  August  I  received  a  letter  from  my  good  friend  Mr. 
Nathan  Appleton  stating  that  Wm  had  not  gained  strength 
as  he  expected  and  recommended  his  passing  another  win- 
ter in  Europe.  These  accounts  did  not  alarm  us  much,  but 
in  a  very  few  days  we  received  the  sad  tidings  that  they 
were  induced  to  consult  a  Physician  in  Florence  who  gave 
a  very  alarming  statement  of  his  case.  My  first  impression 


48  William  Appleton  [1836 

was  to  go  to  him,  but  after  consulting  with  my  friends  I 
concluded  to  have  Amory  go  immediately  to  meet  his 
brother,  with  the  hope  he  would  be  able  to  return  to  us, 
and  Mr.  Ed  Austin  kindly  offered  to  accompany  him; 
they  left  in  the  next  Packet  after  we  got  the  alarming 
letters;  they  had  been  gone  but  a  short  time  till  we  re- 
ceived letters  which  compelled  us  to  make  up  our  minds 
we  should  see  him  no  more.  He  died  at  Schaffhausen  in 
Switzerland  on  the  24th  August,  less  than  twenty  days 
after  we  heard  of  his  severe  indisposition.  Amory  returned 
to  us  in  good  health  in  the  early  part  of  November.  I  could 
not  give  an  idea  of  the  extreme  suffering  I  endured  dur- 
ing the  space  from  hearing  of  his  distressing  health  till  we 
heard  of  the  closing  scene ;  it  was  such  as  I  think  I  could 
not  have  long  endured.  When  the  sad  tidings  came  of  his 
death,  the  shock  was  great,  but  the  suffering  less  than  I 
anticipated;  it  was  a  relief  from  suspense,  perhaps  the  most 
trying  suffering.  My  health  was  suffering  and  for  some 
weeks  I  was  confined  to  the  house.  Mrs.  Appleton  felt  our 
loss  much,  very  much.  Our  friends'  sympathy  was  great 
and  did  much  to  alleviate  our  sorrow.  I  now  feel  that  God 
has  taken  him  to  Himself.  I  think  of  him  with  the  greatest 
pleasure;  the  thousand  incidents  in  his  short  life  appear 
to  me  in  the  most  delightful  aspect;  his  imperfections  have 
disappeared.  I  can  truly  say  with  Mr.  Nathan  Appleton 
who  was  with  him,  "He  had  less  earthly  dross  than  any 
being  I  ever  knew;  He  won  the  hearts  of  all  that  knew  him, 
and  those  who  saw  him  during  his  last  days  spoke  of  him 
in  the  most  exalted  terms."  Mary  Appleton,  in  a  letter 


1836J  Diary  Jottings  49 

to  Mrs.  Sam1  Appleton,  says:  "I  cannot  help  thinking 
of  him  a  perfect  Angel,  such  a  lovely  disposition,  such  a 
Heavenly  expression,  so  much  consulting  the  feelings  of 
other  People,  so  much  patience  without  irritations;  every- 
body says  —  'What  an  angelic  face.'"  Mr.  Jewett,  writing 
from  London  of  the  characters  of  the  party  to  a  friend, 
says :  "  Of  Mr.  William  I  now  pause ;  I  cannot  well  express 
my  love  and  regard  for  that  young  gentleman;  a  love  and 
regard  which  I  fear  will  be  soon  saddened  &  I  put  him  [his 
character]  in  the  most  elevated  place."  The  recollections 
of  his  pious  resignation  at  the  last  hour  are  more  valuable 
to  me  than  anything  in  this  world,,  He  is  gone;  we  have 
much  left  to  be  grateful  to  kind  Heaven  for,  many  prom- 
ising Children  and  other  blessings,  more  than  falls  to  the 
lot  of  almost  any  family  within  my  knowledge. 

I  have  been  a  long  time  endeavouring  to  make  up  my 
mind  that  it  is  my  duty  to  join  the  Holy  Communion.  I 
have  had  several  conversations  on  the  subject  with  Mr. 
Stone,  Dr.  Warren,  Mr.  S.  Hubbard,  and  corresponded 
with  my  good  friend  Mr.  Potter;  they  all  incline  me  to 
think  it  is  my  duty  to  make  a  public  profession  of  Re- 
ligion, but  I  have  doubts.  I  feel  that  I  am  very  sinful,  full 
of  the  love  of  this  world,  that  it  absorbs  my  thoughts  far 
beyond  what  I  am  fully  sensible  it  should.  I  feel  the  value 
of  religion  and  desire  my  children  should  be  religious 
more  than  everything  else. 

In  the  way  of  business  I  have  been  as  successful  as  in 
almost  any  year  of  my  life.  My  property  is  worth  sixty 
to  seventy  thousand  dollars  more  than  at  the  commence- 


50  William  Appleton  [^36 

ment  of  the  year,  after  deducting  twenty  to  thirty  thou- 
sand dollars  losses  on  Flaxseed  and  Sugar.  Money  has 
been  in  demand  through  the  year  and  for  the  last  few 
months  unprecedentedly  so,  worth  two  per  cent  per  month 
for  six  months;  notes  of  the  first  class.  Real  estate,  fancy 
Stocks,  and  all  kinds  of  property  that  the  value  is  not  regu- 
lated by  foreign  markets  are  extremely  high.  Labour  is  far 
beyond  the  price  of  any  former  period;  journeymen  Me- 
chanics get  from  two  to  three  dollars  a  day  and  the  girls  in 
the  Factories  at  Lowell  get  two  dollars  and  a  half  a  week 
besides  their  board. 

The  trade  of  the  last  year  has  been  generally  consid- 
ered good;  but  this  is  estimating  the  stocks  on  hand  at 
high  prices.  The  importations  of  Tea  have  been  a  losing 
business  and  sugars  the  latter  part  of  the  year  very  bad; 
the  loss  on  sugars  from  Cuba  to  St.  Petersburgh  have  been 
enormous,  in  some  instances  twenty-five  dollars  a  Box. 
Manufacturing  has  been  generally  good,  the  Cotton  very 
good,  and  produced  fully  double  interest  on  the  Capital 
employed.  Very  few  failures;  persons  over  trading  have 
retained  their  credit  and  preferred  holding  their  goods  for 
high  prices  and  paying  extravagant  rates  for  the  use  of 
money;  but  a  reckoning  day  must  come,  and  as  I  think, 
before  the  ensuing  year  closes. 

During  the  last  session  of  the  last  Congress  an  inten- 
tion was  shown  on  the  part  of  the  anti-tariff  party  to  re- 
duce the  duties  on  imports.  Under  the  belief  that  the  pres- 
ent Congress  would  modify  the  tariff,  or  at  least  attempt 
it,  I  sold  in  the  course  of  the  last  summer  a  large  part  of 


1836]  Diary  Jottings  51 

my  Manufacturing  stocks,  with  an  intention  to  purchase 
when  the  prices  should  get  down,  but  from  present  ap- 
pearances nothing  of  importance  will  be  done. 


THE  DIARY  OF  1837-1862 
1837 

FEBRUARY.  There  has  been  quite  a  change  in  the 
money  market  the  last  month,  and  prices  of  stocks 
have  improved.  James  S.  Amory  has  lately  engaged 
himself  to  Miss  Greene,  an  excellent  arrangement  for  both; 
she  is  said  to  be  a  fine  Girl  and  he  is  a  good  fellow;  she  has 
money  and  he  will  not  spend  it  improperly;  but  he  never 
did  nor  will  he  ever  make  any  money.  He  has  now  some 
twenty  thousand  dollars  recd  from  his  late  firm  in  Philad, 
but  he  did  very  little  to  make  it,  and  my  advice  to  him 
%is  to  have  nothing  to  do  with  business  in  the  future.  Jona- 
than has  just  commenced  with  twenty-five  thousand  dollars, 
furnished  him  by  Mr.  Austin,  with  a  Mr.  Leeds  who  is  well 
spoken  of,  but  I  have  not  confidence  in  his  success;  he  has 
no  business  talent,  and  if  Leeds  is  what  they  say  of  him 
he  will  not  long  remain  with  him;  my  fear  is  they  will  be 
led  into  an  extensive  business  and  fail;  Dr.  Austin's  money 
lost,  and  we  have  Jonathan  &  his  family  to  take  care  of. 

MARCH.  Easter  Sunday.  For  the  first  time  I  joined 
in  partaking  of  the  Holy  Communion.  It  was  a 
great  effort  for  me  to  make  up  my  mind  whether  it  was 
my  duty  so  to  do,  having  my  mind,  as  it  is,  so  much  en- 
grossed in  the  pursuit  of  the  things  of  this  world.  29^. 
Went  to  New  York,  where  I  found  a  bad  state  of  things ; 
money  extremely  scarce ;  Bills  in  London  twelve  and  a 


1837]  Diary  53 

half  per  Cent,  while  gold  or  silver  might  be  shipped  at 
a  profit  of  two  per  cent.  The  U.  S.  Bank  and  some  other 
Banks  are  sending  out  Bonds  payable  in  London  to  re- 
lieve the  American  Merchants  in  London.  I  fear  it  will  not 
answer  the  purpose.  I  pressed  Mr.  Biddle  to  send  some 
specie  with  the  Bonds,  but  the  truth  is  they  dare  not  part 
with  it.  There  was  a  day  the  present  week  which  looked 
as  if  the  Merchants  would  stop  payment  in  a  body,  but 
they  got  over  the  Panic,  and  will  now  fail  a  few  a  day 
until  a  large  number  have  gone.  The  trouble  has  not  com- 
menced in  Boston  or  Phild,but  must  extend  to  both  Cities; 
we  shall  have  the  most  trying  spring  and  summer  known 
by  the  present  generation  of  traders.  Merchandise  of  all 
kinds,  Stocks  &  Land  must  come  down  in  such  a  degree 
as  to  cause  every  man  much  extended  to  fail,  and  a  man 
worth  one  Hundred  thousand  dollars  and  owes  three  will 
be  fortunate  if  he  pays  his  debts. 

APRIL  9^,  Sunday.  We  Recd  such  bad  accounts  from 
Ijl  New  York  as  induced  me  to  go  there  to  look  after 
Messrs.  Paige  &  Co.'s  business,  and  to  ascertain  if  the 
Banks  would  probably  continue  to  pay  specie.  I  found 
a  worse  state  of  things  than  when  I  left  some  ten  days 
since ;  an  entire  want  of  confidence,  paper  could  not  be 
negotiated  in  Wall  Street  in  the  usual  way;  persons  who 
were  in  the  habit  of  taking  notes  preferred  letting  their 
money  remain  in  the  Banks  to  taking  paper,  not  knowing 
what  would  be  the  currency  when  the  Notes  became  due. 
The  United  States  Banks  agreed  to  issue  Post  Notes,  pay- 


54  William  Appleton  [1837 

able  at  a  future  day,  say  in  five  months.  It  takes  notes  pay- 
able in  New  York  in  four  months,  charging  one  per  cent 
exchange,  and  appears  likely  to  restore  confidence,  so  far 
as  to  bring  out  the  money  lying  in  the  Banks  on  deposit. 
My  belief  is  that  things  will  be  easier  and  we  have  seen 
the  worst  of  the  storm  if  the  London  Houses  do  not  fail. 
l$*K  Returned  to  Boston;  find  things  comparatively  easy 
and  quiet,  but  we  must  have  trouble;  the  gale  commenced 
at  the  south  and  has  been  passing  to  the  north,  and  we 
cannot  escape  it.  29^.  Within  the  space  of  the  week  there 
have  been  a  large  number  of  heavy  failures  in  this  place 
—  Whitwell  Bond  &  Co.,  Livermore  &  Kendall,  Grant  & 
Seaver,  Stone,  Seaver  &  Bush  are  among  the  most  promi- 
nent. It  is  said  they  will  pay  their  debts,  but  my  belief  is 
that  they  will  not  on  an  average  pay  fifty  cents  on  the  dol- 
lar. I  fancy  there  will  be  more  failures  before  July.  Cot- 
ton will  not  go  below  last  prices  in  New  Orleans,  say  7 
to  14  Cents  lb.,  I  think;  but  my  opinion  is  not  worth  writ- 
ing; I  have  no  confidence  in  it.  No  one  can  tell  what  will 
come  out  of  the  present  state  of  things. 

MAY  $th.  Attended  a  meeting  of  large  Stockholders 
of  the  Lawrence  Mills,  called  as  I  think  very  inju- 
diciously, to  take  measures  to  provide  for  the  payment  of 
their  Acceptances  for  Cotton.  I  must  confess  to  myself 
what  I  would  not  speak  to  anyone,  there  must  be  a  gen- 
eral suspension,  unless  relief  comes  from  some  quarters  I 
cannot  anticipate.  Men's  property  is  getting  down  so  fast 
nobody  will  long  be  able  to  pay  their  debts ;  U.  S.  Bank 


1837]  Diary  55 

$97;  N.  Y.  State  Bank  #71  from  $  120 ;  others  in  the  same 
rate.  Worcester  railroad  #73,  Providence  $88 ;  Merrimac 
Manufacturing  stock  $950,  and  three  months  ago  same 
$1350.  This  state  of  things  cannot  continue.  9^.  I  have 
been  most  of  the  day  engaged  in  looking  into  the  Affairs 
of  Mr.  T.  I  find  he  has  by  his  Statement  more  than  twelve 
Hundred  Thousand  dollars  of  property.  Owes  about  three 
hundred  &  seventy-five.  I  am  doubtful  after  looking  into 
the  business  if  he  can  get  out  and  pay  his  debts  as  they 
come  due.  He  offered  me  fifty  thousand  dollars  to  carry 
him  through,  but  I  cannot  connect  my  name  with  his ;  I 
shall  do  all  I  can  for  him,  but  my  impression  is  not  favour- 
able to  his  getting  on  without  assigning  his  property.  1  Ith. 
We  have  accounts  from  New  York  of  the  suspension  of 
specie  payments  and  our  Banks  have  this  evening  come 
to  the  conclusion  to  suspend  likewise.  This  is  a  measure 
most  afflicting  to  me,  mortifying  in  the  extreme,  but  it  is 
absolutely  necessary  for  the  protection  of  ourselves ;  no 
Merchant  who  is  doing  business  beyond  his  capital  could 
have  met  his  payments ;  in  fact,  many  of  our  Banks  could 
not  have  met  their  bills.  13^.  The  last  evening  a  meeting 
of  Genmn,  a  committee  Appointed  by  the  Banks,  met  at 
my  House  and  agreed  upon  a  report  made  this  day.  The 
report  was  drawn  by  Mr.  Hubbard  on  my  plan;  in  fact 
the  report  I  consider  mine  in  Mr.  Hubbard's  language.  I 
think  it  will  prevent  the  over  issues  by  the  Banks  for  a 
time.  18^.  Left  with  Mrs.  Appleton,  Miss  Amory,  James 
S.  Amory,  Mary  Ann,  Sarah  and  Harriet1  on  an  excur- 

1  His  three  daughters. 


56  William  Appleton  [^37 

sion  for  New  York  &  PhiK  We  passed  two  days  in  New 
York.  In  Phila  there  appears  to  be  a  feeling  that  the  Gov- 
ernment of  the  U.  S.  must  use  the  present  Banks  to.  get 
things  in  a  proper  state,  but  they  are  mistaken;  the  pres- 
ent party  will  never  submit  to  such  humiliation.  We  re- 
turned to  Boston,  being  absent  about  ten  days ;  had  a  pleas- 
ant journey;  found  all  well.  After  much  anxiety  and  various 
discussions  Mr.  T.  put  all  his  property  into  my  hands  for 
the  benefit  of  his  creditors.  Mr.  G.  W.  Lyman  is  nominally 
associated  with  me.  My  determination  is  to  use  my  best 
possible  exertions  for  the  benefit  of  all  interested;  in  nowise 
to  commit  myself  in  a  pecuniary  point  or  to  purchase  any 
part  of  the  property  I  have  had  placed  in  my  hands.  We 
are  all  anxious  to  know  the  fate  of  the  London  Banking 
Houses;  most  persons  suppose  they  will  all  fail  and  the 
Bank  of  England  stop  specie  payment.  My  belief  is  that 
the  Banks  will  not  get  into  difficulty  and  that  we  much 
overrate  the  losses  that  will  be  sustained  by  the  London 
Houses  in  the  American  trade.  My  belief  is  that  we  have 
seen  the  worst  of  it  for  the  present. 

JUNE  13^.  Recd  letters  from  Mr.  N.  Appleton  to  the 
13th  May  from  London;  he  appears  encouraged  as  to 
the  American  Houses  being  sustained.  I  cannot  think  they 
will  get  on  after  hearing  from  this  side  of  the  suspension 
of  specie  payments.  My  expectation  is  that  they  will  think 
that  Brother  Jonathan  intends  cheating  them  out  of  all 
their  debts  and  they  will  cut  them  all  adrift.  Possibly  the 
Bank  of  England  may  feel  compelled  to  keep  them  along. 


1837]  Diary  57 

But  it  is  more  likely  we  hear  of  many  failures  in  Liver- 
pool and  other  places  in  England  when  we  get  news  a  few 
days  later  from  England.  Went  to  visit  my  mother  the  first 
of  the  week.  I  found  her  very  well,  full  of  spirits  and  her 
mind  bright;  she  reads  much,  two  or  three  hours  in  an  even- 
ing; able  to  ride  and  drive  the  horse  attached  to  her  chaise; 
she  takes  fully  four  pounds  of  Opium  in  a  year;  the  quan- 
tity she  increases  regularly;  she  has  taken  it  for  more  than 
twenty  years  without  apparent  bad  effects;  she  began  with 
a  small  quantity  for  diarrhea;  she  has  been  a  feeble  woman 
for  more  than  fifty  years;  now  eighty-one,  and  has  as  much 
health  as  she  has  had  during  my  recollections.  20^.  Amory 
left  this  day  with  Mr.  Oxnard  for  New  York.  I  am  very 
happy  in  viewing  the  character  of  this  son;  He  fills  the 
place  of  dear  William  with  me  to  an  extent  beyond  what 
I  could  have  imagined ;  I  think  him  as  pure  a  minded  lad 
as  I  ever  knew,  and  he  has  more  real  piety  than  any  young 
man  of  his  age  that  has  ever  come  to  my  knowledge. 

SEPTEMBER.  With  Franklin  Dexter  I  took  a  jour- 
ney to  Pittsfield,  Albany  &  New  York.  When  we  met 
Mr.  Nathan  Appleton  &  family,  returning  from  their  tour 
to  Europe,  I  made  up  my  mind  not  to  make  them  unhappy 
by  showing  my  feelings.  It  was  painful  to  meet  them  who 
had  accompanied  my  dear  William  on  his  last  journey. 
My  friends  returned  in  excellent  health  and  spirits  and 
I  trust  will  be  contented  with  their  much  to  be  envied 
home. 


58  William  Appleton  [1837 

OCTOBER.  I  recd  a  most  interesting  letter  from  my 
friend  Cabot,  giving  an  account  of  his  visit  to  the 
grave  of  our  dear  William.  His  account  of  the  place,  the 
information  he  picked  up  at  Schaffhausen,  etc.,  much  inter- 
ested me. 

NOVEMBER  1".  Went  to  New  York  to  accompany 
our  eldest  daughter  to  pass  a  few  months  under  the 
care  of  Mrs.  &  Miss  Inglis.  It  was  not  a  favourite  plan 
of  mine,  yet  I  think  on  the  whole  she  will  be  benefited  by 
going  from  home ;  she  has  the  best  of  feelings  with  fair 
understanding.  27th.  James  S.  Amory  was  married  to  Miss 
Mary  Greene;  she  appears  a  fine  woman,  and  their  chances 
of  happiness  appear  good. 

DECEMBER  2?K  Went  to  visit  my  Mother,  now 
almost  eighty-two  years  old.  I  found  her  enjoying  as 
much  health  as  I  almost  ever  knew  her  with;  her  senses  as 
bright  as  in  youth  almost ;  she  reads  much  and  converses 
with  fluency  and  judgment;  she  hears  quickly  and  is  much 
interested  in  the  future  welfare  of  her  Children.  31^.  This 
day  ends  the  year.  I  feel  that  I  have  more  to  be  grateful  for 
than  almost  any  person.  My  family  have  health  and  what 
is  all  important  to  our  happiness  so  far  as  we  know, — 
good  habits.  Amory  is  a  great  treasure  to  me,  he  is  my  com- 
panion and  I  feel  that  he  makes  me  better,  he  reads  and 
says  his  prayers  with  me  night  and  morning,  and  I  feel  as 
if  there  was  nothing  he  would  wish  to  conceal  from  me. 


1838]  Diary  59 

Our  daughters  are  all  we  could  reasonably  wish  and  the 
younger  Children  all  we  can  expect.  The  last  year  has 
been  one  of  change  and  disaster  to  the  commercial  world, 
such  as  has  not  been  known  during  the  present  generation, 
but  things  are  getting  in  a  more  limited  &  better  state; 
our  debts  in  Europe  are  in  the  way  of  being  paid  and  ere 
long  I  trust  business  will  get  in  its  usual  channels.  For 
myself  I  have  been  very  fortunate,  I  do  not  know  that  I 
have  lost  anything  by  bad  debts  directly.  I  have  on  hand 
a  large  Amount  of  Merchandise  and  some  considerable 
adventures  abroad.  My  present  belief  is  that  the  voyages 
now  under  way  will  be  profitable,  in  fact,  business  will  be 
good,  that  Stocks  will  advance,  but  I  do  not  intend  to  ex- 
tend myself,  and  never  again  on  the  end  of  the  year  to  owe 
$500,000;  more  than  three  of  which  is  in  Notes. 

1838 

JANUARY.  I  commenced  the  present  year  with  more 
than  usual  solicitude  owing  to  the  extent  of  my  en- 
gagements and  the  unsettled  state  of  the  currency.  My  be- 
lief is  that  we  shall  soon  pay  our  debts  abroad  and  we  shall 
be  in  a  situation  to  return  to  specie  payments,  or  ought 
to  be  in  such  a  state,  but  there  is  an  unwillingness  on  the 
part  of  many  of  our  men  of  business  to  meet  the  crisis,  and 
some  of  our  Banks  are  managed  by  persons  largely  in- 
debted to  them.  I  hardly  doubt  they  are  able  to  meet  all 
their  engagements,  yet  they  must  have  much  paper  that 
cannot  be  collected,  and  we  must  have  some  failures  among 


60  William  Appleton  [1838 

the  speculators  who  have  got  their  funds  from  the  Banks, 
where  they  are  directors. 

FEBRUARY  9^.  Went  with  Mr.  Paige  to  New  York 
to  endeavour  to  assist  him  in  getting  some  money  on 
the  Grand  Island  Bonds.  Sunday  I  dined  with  Mr.  Jona- 
than Amory ;  Mary  Ann  passed  Sunday  with  them,  she 
looks  very  well;  am  quite  delighted  with  her.  16^.  Arrived 
in  Boston  the  afternoon;  found  my  dear  pet  Charles  quite 
ill,  but  not  very  sick  as  I  think.  22«<  Charles  quite  ill  and 
I  fear  may  not  recover;  he  has  a  lung  fever  &  pleurisy. 
Dr.  Jackson  attends  on  him  &  Mason  Warren  is  all  atten- 
tion to  him.  25^.  Master  Charles  much  better  and  I  trust 
has  turned  a  favourable  corner;  the  poor  little  fellow  has 
suffered  much  pain. 

MARCH  Ist.  There  has  been  much  excitement 
among  the  small  traders  owing  to  the  curtailment 
of  the  Banks ;  there  appears  to  me  now  there  will  be  no 
difficulty  in  the  Banks  resuming  payment  in  May.  We 
shall  have  a  large  amount  of  Specie  from  England  in  that 
month  which  will  put  all  right  again  and  before  Sept.  we 
shall  be  wondering  why  we  were  so  much  depressed;  things 
will  get  back  to  former  state  and  all  will  be  well  till  we 
get  in  debt  again  in  Europe.  8^.  J.  Ingersoll  Bowditch 
called  on  me  this  morning  and  said  his  father,  Dr.  Nath1 
Bowditch,  would  like  to  have  me  call  and  see  him,  which 
I  was  most  happy  to  do.  He  is  quite  sensible  that  he 
is  about  to  close  his  earthly  existence.  He  said  that  he  was 


1838]  Diary  61 

anxious  to  see  me;  that  he  felt  a  strong  interest  in  me 
as  he  had  for  many  years,  as  he  had  openly  expressed  his 
confidence  in  me,  and  my  ability  &  usefulness.  He  said: 
"  At  one  time  when  speaking  to  you  my  feelings,  you  let 
slip  from  your  lips  that  I  flattered  you ;  I  tell  you  as  a 
dying  man  I  never  said  to  you  a  word  that  I  did  not  feel, 
and  I  now  tell  you  that  you  have  done  as  much  for  the 
City  of  Boston  as  any  man  in  it;  your  word  passes  as  a  war- 
rant, and  no  person  has,  nor  deserves,  more  the  respect  of 
the  Community."  He  advised  me  to  continue  in  business 
while  I  had  the  health  &  capacity  so  to  do ;  not  risking  so 
much  in  any  one  object  as  to  affect  my  happiness  should 
it  prove  unsuccessful.  I  told  him  I  considered  the  oppor- 
tunity I  had  of  his  society  was  such  as  I  ought  to  be  grate- 
ful for,  that  it  was  impossible  for  any  person  to  be  as  much 
with  him  as  I  had  been  for  the  last  twelve  years  without 
improving.  Sunday  evening,  \\th.  I  have  not  for  some  weeks 
been  in  a  happy  state  of  mind.  I  have  felt  my  passions  were 
not  subdued,  my  feelings  toward  my  fellow  beings  far  from 
what  I  knew  they  should  be  and  I  doubted  whether  I  ought 
to  go  to  the  communion  table.  I  did  not  know  what  to  do; 
my  anxiety  was  very  great.  As  is  our  custom,  Amory  was 
reading  one  of  Jay's  lessons  for  the  evening,  the  text  was 
the  request  of  the  Jailor  to  St.  Paul,  "  What  shall  I  do 
to  be  saved4?"  The  Answer,  "Believe  in  the  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,"  came  over  me  with  an  effect  that  I  could  not  de- 
scribe if  I  were  to  attempt  it.  I  dreamed  of  it  through  the 
following  night,  it  has  hardly  been  out  of  my  mind  since. 
It  has  dispersed  the  cloud  that  surrounded  my  mind  for 


62  William  Appleton  [1838 

the  time.  God  grant  that  it  may  so  continue !  I  do  not  think 
myself  superstitious,  nor  do  I  mean  to  convey  the  idea  of 
any  special  Providence  attending  the  circumstance,  but  to 
show  how  much  a  passage  in  the  Holy  Writ  may  affect 
us  at  one  time  &  pass  unnoticed  hundreds  of  Others.  My 
belief  is  that  a  Christian  often  perplexes  himself  with  un- 
necessary doubts  and  fears  from  trying  to  understand  mys- 
teries which  were  not  intended  for  us  to  know;  that  we 
should  endeavour  to  enjoy  religion  in  its  simplicity.  14A 
Went  to  New  York  in  company  with  the  Earl  of  Gosford, 
late  Governor  of  Canada,  a  very  Gentlemanly,  good  natured 
Irishman.  \"jth.  Returned  from  New  York  &  found  my 
family  all  well,  but  my  good  friend  Dr.  Nath1  Bowditch 
gone,  he  died  on  the  16th.  I  most  sincerely  regret  his  death, 
he  was  one  of  the  most  valuable  men  in  society.  His  loss  to 
me  is  very  great,  his  counsel  was  valuable  and  no  one  could 
be  intimate  with  him  but  that  improvement  would  follow. 
He  was  more  strict  in  his  communication  than  any  man  I 
ever  knew.  He  would  never,  if  applied  to  for  a  loan,  put 
off  the  applicant  by  saying  it  was  not  convenient  unless 
that  was  really  the  case;  if  he  did  not  like  the  security  he 
would  say  so.  If  he  did  not  like  a  man,  from  feeling  he  could 
not  fully  depend  on  him,  the  person  must  be  much  blinded 
if  he  did  not  discover  his  feelings.  He  died  at  the  age  of 
sixty-five.  The  early  part  of  his  life  was  passed,  after  an 
apprenticeship  in  a  Store,  in  Voyages  to  India,  most  of  the 
time  as  a  Master  of  a  Vessel,  and  then  became  the  Presi- 
dent of  an  Insurance  office  in  Salem.  He  removed  to  Boston 
and  was  made  President  of  a  Marine  Insurance  office,  in 


1838]  Diary  63 

which  I  was  a  director,  &  Actuary  of  the  Massachusetts 
Hospital  Life  Ins.  Company;  the  latter  situation  he  held 
till  his  death.  During  his  residence  in  this  City  I  was  very 
intimate  with  him;  he  placed  great  confidence  in  me,  and 
consulted  me  on  all  important  investments.  I  trust  the  pre- 
cepts &  example  of  this  good  and  great  man  will  never  be 
forgotten  by  me. 

A  PRIL  8^,  Sunday.  It  is  about  a  year  since  I  first  went 
jLjL.  to  the  Communion;  I  feel  satisfied  that  I  did  right 
in  so  doing;  I  have  through  life  thus  far  always  had  a  great 
respect  for  religion  &  for  many  years  felt  the  sinfulness 
of  my  nature.  I  went  this  day  with  my  dear  Amory  &  was 
confirmed  by  Bishop  Griswold;  this  I  did  in  part  as  an  ex- 
ample to  my  children,  at  the  same  time  feeling  the  addi- 
tional pledge  was  my  duty.  gt/l.  Mrs.  Appletonleft  with  me 
for  New  York,  where  we  passed  a  few  days;  our  daughter 
Mary  Ann  returned  with  us  to  Boston,  having  been  at 
Mrs.  Inglis'  school  for  about  six  months;  her  health  is  good 
and  she  is  much  improved,  we  think,  by  exercise  &  being 
in  the  open  air. 

JUNE  20 th.  Removed  to  Brookline,  having  put  the 
House  I  purchased  from  Mr.  Whitmarsh  in  order, 
being  the  place  formerly  occupied  by  Mr.  S.  Higginson. 

JULY  if.  Amory  left  us  in  the  Ship  "  Ebn  Preble"  for 
New  York,  she  having  just  arrived  from  Canton,  G.  W. 
Minot  Supercargo.  \th.  Mr.  N.  Appleton,  family  &  Mr. 


64  William  Appleton  [1838 

&  Mrs.  Sam'l  Appleton  dined  with  us.  A  most  delightful 


season. 


A  U GUST.  Dr.  Warren  and  family  have  returned  from 
jl\.  Europe.  We  arranged  for  him  to  take  the  House  we 
now  live  in,  and  I  am  to  build  on  the  south  part  of  the  lot. 

DECEMBER  31".  More  than  half  a  century  have  I 
lived :  almost  without  parallel  in  the  smiles  of  For- 
tune, in  wealth,  Wife,  children,  etc.,  etc.  So  much  for  me 
has  been  granted  by  kind  Heaven,  what  have  I  done  for 
my  fellow  beings'?  Very  little  beyond  my  own  connec- 
tions; my  Wife,  children,  Mother  &  Sisters  have  not  been 
neglected,  but  beyond  my  immediate  circle  very  little  has 
been  done  to  promote  the  cause  of  religion,  and  strange 
to  say  that  with  a  full  conviction  of  the  error,  I  con- 
tinue to  be  engrossed  in  the  cares  of  this  World,  a  desire 
to  increase  a  fortune  now  large,  more  than  six  hundred 
Thousand  dollars  and  one  Hundred  times  more  than  I 
expected  at  twenty  years  old  ever  to  possess.  My  present 
intentions  are  to  lessen  my  business,  try  to  bring  my  mind 
to  dwell  on  things  of  more  importance,  to  associate  more 
with  religious  persons.  Not  that  I  suppose  I  can  make  my- 
self what  I  would  be,  but  I  shall  be  more  in  the  way  of 
Heaven's  richest  blessings.  When  I  look  about  me  and 
see  the  wonderful  kindness  of  the  Supreme  Being  to  me 
in  giving  us  such  amiable  children,  endowed  with  a  full 
share  of  health,  reason,  together  with  this  world's  goods  far 
above  what  fall  to  the  lot  of  most  men,  I  pause !  Among 


i 


1839]  Diary  65 

the  blessings  I  feel  most  is  the  promise  of  virtue  and  use- 
fulness in  our  eldest  son.  He  is  all  a  kind  parent  could 
wish;  his  disposition  more  valuable  than  many  fortunes; 
his  principles  so  fixed  that  I  trust  he  is  safe  from  the  or- 
dinary temptations  of  this  world;  He  has  lately  become 
engaged  to  Miss  Mary  Lyman1  with  the  full  approbation 
of  all  their  friends. 

1839 

THE  year  has  passed  without  any  remarkable  incidents 
in  my  immediate  Walks  up  to  the  present  time.  We  are 
now  going  to  our  new  House  at  Brookline,  the  latter  part 
of  July.  It  is  in  an  unfinished  state,  or  rather  the  place  is. 
Mary  Ann  took  a  journey  to  the  Springs  in  Virginia  with  Dr. 
Robbins,  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Hay  ward  and  Miss  Spring.  She  was 
absent  about  six  weeks  and  returned  with  improved  health. 

SEPTEMBER  2«<  My  excellent  friend  Hon^e  Wm. 
Sullivan2  departed  this  life.  He  was  a  man  of  fair 
talents,  well  educated,  excellent  heart,  a  true  friend,  dis- 
appointed as  a  publick  man;  died  regretted  by  all,  par- 
ticularly by  those  who  knew  him  best ;  to  me  he  was  an 
ardent  friend.  In  1816,  not  expecting  to  return  from  Eu- 
rope, I  left  him  and  Mr.  Jonathan  Amory3  my  executors, 
or  Trustees,  but  I  have  lived  to  settle  both  their  estates. 
\oth.  Letters  by  the  Steam  Packet  from  Baring  Brothers 
and  Co.  indicated  the  failure  of  the  United  States  Banks 

1  Daughter  of  Mr.  George  W.  Lyman.  2  His  wife's  uncle. 

8  His  wife's  stepfather. 


66  William  Appleton  [^39 

to  meet  their  engagements  in  London.  At  the  request  of 
Mr.  Thorn.  W.  Ward  I  went  on  to  New  York ;  I  found 
Mr.Sam'l  Ward  &Mr.Thos  Ward1  of  the  opinion  that  Mr. 
Jaudon,  the  Agent  of  the  Banks,  would  not  be  sustained; 
Mr.  J.  G.  King,  Sturgis,  &  myself  thought  he  would.  I 
went  to  Philadelphia,  found  the  Gentlemen  of  the  Banks 
quite  disposed  to  put  Ward  off,  and  he  in  fact  was  on  the 
point  of  returning  to  New  York  when  I  arrived  without 
any  explanation  of  their  situation,  but  on  taking  strong 
ground  brought  them  out,  but  only  in  part.  On  the  15th 
I  returned  to  New  York,  where  I  remained,  all  in  a  State 
of  great  anxiety  for  the  arrival  of  the  "British  Queen" 
Steamer:  money  quite  scarce:  United  States  Banks  Post 
Notes  at  ten  months  sell  at  1^  per  cent  per  month  dis- 
count, and  no  doubt  they  are  sold  by  the  Banks  for  their 
own  purposes.  On  the  20th  the  steamer  arrived ;  by  her  let- 
ters it  appeared  that  Mr.  Jaudon  had  been  sustained  by  the 
assistance  of  six  to  seven  hundred  thousand  pounds  from 
various  houses,  and  the  impression  appeared  to  be  that  he 
would  get  through,  the  Banks  having  made  large  remit- 
tance in  specie  payment  and  stocks.  On  the  21st  I  re- 
turned; found  all  well,  our  family  at  Brookline,  except  Mas- 
ter Frank,  who  has  just  commenced  his  residence  at  Cam- 
bridge, having  entered  College  in  the  sophomore  Class.  I  had 
much  anxiety  as  to  his  getting  into  College,  but  I  trust  he 
will  get  on  well;  he  has  no  bad  habits,  is  inclined  to  be  in- 
dustrious, more  sol  think  than  any  of  my  boys ;  not  particu- 
larly fond  of  Study,  but  as  much  so  as  most  lads  of  his  age. 

1  N.  Y.  representatives  of  Baring  Brothers. 


1839]  Diary  67 

OCTOBER  18^.  Returned  yesterday  from  New  York, 
where  I  went  ten  days  since  at  the  request  of  several 
of  our  Banks,  at  the  receipt  of  the  report  that  the  Banks 
of  the  United  States  had  stopped  payment.  On  my  arri- 
val at  New  York,  I  found  all  the  Banks  in  PhiR  had  sus- 
pended specie  payment  on  the  9th  &  the  Baltimore  Banks 
on  the  10th.  It  was  very  doubtful  in  my  mind  whether  New 
York  would  not  be  obliged  to  follow,  but  all  the  gentle- 
men of  my  acquaintance  in  Wall  Street  said  they  would 
get  on,  but  Pine  Street  Genmn  &  Jobbers  generally  thought 
otherwise.  I  went  to  Phild,  saw  many  of  the  persons  inter- 
ested in  the  U.  S.  Banks;  they  were  much  depressed.  I 
fancy  the  affairs  will  not  be  closed  without  failure  among 
the  managers.  Mr.  Elihu  Chauncy  I  found  very  com- 
municative; he  thinks  Mr.  Biddle  a  vain  man,  one  who 
would  not  have  for  his  advisers  persons  who  expressed 
opinions  not  in  accordance  with  his;  that  he  had  been  the 
cause  of  all  the  difficulties  in  the  Banks,  that  he,  Biddle, 
Jaudon,  Coperthwait,  &  Brown  &  Humphreys  were  in- 
terested in  the  Liverpool  House  in  having  a  share  of  the 
profits  of  the  firm  of  Humphreys  &  Biddle.  Mr.  Chauncy 
thought  that  if  the  Phild  banks  or  the  U.  S.  Banks  &  Girard 
Banks  had  not  managed  very  badly,  they  would  have  made 
the  N.  York  Banks  suspend  first.  Their  plan  was  that  the 
Girard  Banks  should  draw  bills  on  Morrison  &  Cryder, 
sell  them  in  New  York  &  Baltimore,  then  draw  the  specie 
to  go  by  the  Steamer  &  compel  the  Banks  in  New  York 
to  suspend,  but  they  were  clumsy  and  failed,  having  sold 


68  William  Appleton  [1839 

but  some  twenty  thousand  pounds  in  Baltimore  &  thirty 
to  forty  elsewhere.  He  said  if  New  York  &  Boston  con- 
tinue to  pay  specie  PhiK  must  call  in  &  resume  as  soon 
as  possible ;  that  he,  in  the  Bank  of  Pennsylvania,  was  op- 
posed to  extending  till  it  was  ascertained  what  would  be 
finally  done  inNewYork.  I  returned  to  New  York  the  14th, 
where  I  found  much  doubt  existed  as  to  their  being  able 
to  supply  exchange  for  the  steamer  to  sail  on  the  19th. 
I  considered  it  very  doubtful  if  the  Banks  would  be  able 
to  sustain  themselves,  but  the  Banks  finally  made  arrange- 
ments to  draw  on  London  for  about  250s  £,  which  changed 
the  appearance  of  things.  Yet  there  were  some  bad  features 
in  the  future  prospects,  much  was  said  of  the  Wall  Street 
Click.  Sam1  Ward  is  a  sound  man  but  very  bad  manners, 
very  unpopular.  Thos.  W.  Ward  knows  less  but  has  all 
his  unpopularity,  yet  thinks  he  is  a  very  great  man.  I  have 
prevented  his  making  several  very  great  blunders  within 
a  month.  On  my  return  to  Boston  I  find  much  excitement 
on  the  question  whether  the  Banks  shall  suspend  or  not. 
There  was  a  meeting  of  a  large  number  of  Merchants,  it 
being  an  adjournment  from  another  meeting,  the  last  night, 
and  on  a  motion  to  adjourn  or  take  up  the  proposition 
to  recommend  the  Banks  to  suspend,  there  was  about  an 
equal  number.  The  statements  that  I  made  of  the  deter- 
mination on  the  part  of  the  Banks  in  New  York  &  of  their 
strength  produced  much  effect,  yet  I  think  it  quite  doubt- 
ful how  the  affair  turns;  I  think  three-fourths  of  the  traders 
and  Bank  directors  wish  a  suspension,  but  they  are  afraid 
to  avow  it.  I  think  on  the  whole  we  shall  hold  out  as  long 


1839]  Diary  69 

as  they  do  in  New  York.  25^.  We  have  rather  alarming 
accounts  from  New  York  on  the  subject  of  the  specie  pay- 
ments. There  was  a  meeting  called  of  Merchants  who  have 
appointed  a  committee  to  call  on  the  Banks  and  request 
them  to  increase  their  discounts,  to  receive  &  pay  Bills  of 
the  distant  Banks,  virtually  to  suspend  specie  payments.  It 
is  doubtful  whether  the  better  part  of  the  Merchants  will 
join  in  this  project;  if  so  the  Banks  must  or  a  part  of  them 
will  be  compelled  to  comply.  I  do  not  see  any  prominent 
men  among  those  of  the  committees.  Jonn  Amory  appears 
to  be  active ;  poor  fellow,  I  fear  he  will  do  no  good  for 
himself  or  any  one  else  in  this  World.  28//?/.  The  meeting 
of  Merchants  in  New  York  ended  without  any  bad  effects ; 
on  the  contrary  they  made  no  impression  on  the  Banks  or 
the  publick  other  than  induce  the  latter  to  support  the 
Banks;  I  now  feel  more  confidence  in  the  Banks  holding 
out  to  pay  specie  than  I  have  at  any  former  moment  since 
the  actions  of  the  Banks  in  Philadelphia;  no  failures  of 
consequence  have  taken  place  in  this  place  or  in  New 
York,  nor  will  there  be  among  persons  able  to  pay  their 
debts.  The  trade  of  the  last  year  has  been  good  generally, 
and  till  prices  fall  the  trades  have  the  appearance  of  having 
made  money.  I  fear  before  a  year  passes  many  who  now 
feel  strong  will  find  they  have  no  property. 

NOVEMBER  VK  The  accounts  from  New  York 
show  a  continued  pressure  on  the  money  market. 
Stocks  are  very  low  &  money  worth  three  per  cent  per 
month  for  paper  of  sixty  to  ninety  days.  Our  accounts  from 


70  William  Appleton  [^39 

London  to  the  28th  Sept.  have  it  doubtful  whether  Mr. 
Jaudon  will  be  protested  or  not;  the  general  opinion  is 
that  he  will  fail;  my  feeling  is  that  he  will  be  carried  on 
from  week  to  week  till  his  engagements  are  much  reduced 
&  then  it  will  be  for  the  interest  of  those  who  have  aided 
him  to  carry  him  through  with  his  payments.  \th.  We  have 
accounts  by  the  "Great  Western"  steamer  to  the  20th  Ul- 
timo. It  appears  Mr.  Jaudon  has  made  a  loan  of  £8oo~  for 
one  &  two  years  on  Bonds,  with  Stocks  as  collateral,  which 
costsover  ten  percent  per  annum;  there  appears  little  doubt 
of  the  engagements  of  the  Banks  being  complied  with  in 
Europe.  My  feeling  is  that  we  shall  have  a  dull  business 
the  ensuing  winter:  prices  must  fall  of  most  articles,  those 
of  common  stocks  will  advance ;  flour  is  now  worth  in  New 
York  $5.50  to  $6.00.  I  think  well  of  it  as  a  speculation; 
before  the  end  of  next  June  it  will  be  worth  $8.00.  I  may 
purchase  some  but  intend  to  limit  my  business.  I  never 
felt  more  inclined  to  extend  myself;  I  feel  that  a  good 
business  may  be  done  with  capital  or  even  on  credit.  12th. 
Amory  left  us  for  New  York  with  the  intention  of  making 
some  purchases  of  flour;  I  think  very  well  of  the  article; 
the  crop  appears  short  in  most  places  and  the  price  low  in 
this  Country;  less  than  $6.00  the  bbl.  of  196  lbs. 

DECEMBER  31".  The  summer  we  passed  at  Brook- 
line;1  we  found  it  very  pleasant,  we  shall  probably 
continue  to  pass  our  summers  there.  The  children  prom- 
ise by  their  conduct  to  be  useful  members  of  society;  our 

1  The  house  is  now  occupied  by  Mr.  Sherman  Whipple. 


1840]  Diary  71 

eldest  son  continues  a  great  comfort  to  me;  he  appears 
truly  religious,  his  disposition  remarkably  good,  as  are  his 
manners.  Frank  has  been  industrious  in  his  studies  and 
appears  to  be  doing  well  at  Cambridge;  our  two  eldest 
daughters  are  all  we  could  wish.  The  character  of  the  other 
children  is  to  be  formed;  if  they  follow  the  example  of  the 
older,  we  shall  have  great  reason  for  gratitude.  The  year 
has  been  an  eventful  one  to  the  commercial  world;  the 
most  important  circumstance  was  the  suspension  of  the 
Banks  in  Philadelphia  and  all  to  the  south  &  west;  I  feel 
as  if  I  was  useful  in  preventing  the  Banks  in  New  York 
and  New  England  from  following  their  example.  I  trust 
all  will  come  right,  but  we  shall  not  get  right  till  some  new 
system  of  restraint  is  adopted  to  prevent  the  extension  of 
the  issuing  of  a  paper  currency.  What  this  should  be,  or 
when  it  will  come,  I  will  not  predict. 

1840 

JANUARY.  This  year  commences  with  dull  prospects 
for  business.  Our  country  has  been  blessed  with  an 
abundant  crop  of  the  principal  articles  of  consumption  as 
well  as  those  of  export;  yet  the  state  of  the  currency  pre- 
vents the  goods  passing  through  their  usual  channels; 
besides,  the  west  &  the  south  are  much  in  debt  to  the  east, 
and  the  whole  nation,  to  Europe;  we  have  been  extrava- 
gant in  our  importations  of  luxuries,  and  in  our  desire  to 
promote  large  private  and  public  works,  but  no  doubt  all 
will  come  round  in  due  time. 


72  William  Appleton  [1840 

FEBRUARY.  I  find  myself  much  troubled  with  the 
old  enemy  dyspepsia.  The  last  month  was  very  severe 
weather  which  prevented  my  getting  my  usual  exercise. 

MARCH  \$th.  For  the  last  fifteen  days  I  have  been 
dieting  on  a  small  quantity  of  meat  &  crackers, 
after  going  through  a  course  of  physick;  I  have  taken 
before  eating  at  each  meal  a  preparation  of  Creosote. 

A  PRIL  Ist.  My  indisposition  continues  to  an  extent 
x\.  that  it  disquiets  and  alarms  me.  15^.  The  last  two 
weeks  I  passed  in  journeying.  Went  to  New  York  with 
Mary  Ann.  "Trenton"  arrivd:  stored  her  cargo;  sold  her. 

JUNE  18^.  This  is  the  day  my  dear  Amory  is  to  be 
married  to  Miss  Mary  E.  Lyman;  may  God  bless 
them!  I  think  well  of  his  choice,  he  deserves  much.  It  is 
a  sad  day  to  me,  the  idea  of  parting  with  him  makes  me 
sad,  almost  sick;  he  has  been  my  companion  for  three 
years ;  we  have  communicated  freely  on  all  subjects ;  night 
&  morning  has  he  read  to  us  from  Jay.  We  have  daily 
united  together  in  prayer;  I  trust,  I  believe,  with  benefit  to 
both;  his  health  is  not  firm;  I  fear  he  inherits  the  consti- 
tution of  his  father;  if  so,  a  long  life  is  hardly  desirable; 
yet,  with  all  my  infirmities,  there  are  few  persons  who  have 
so  much  cause  of  gratitude  to  Heaven  as  myself:  a  wife 
with  an  affectionate  heart,  with  strong  attachments  to 
her  family,  blessed  with  excellent  health;  children  with 


1840]  Diary  73 

good  dispositions,  easily  controulled ;  many  kind  friends 
and  an  ample  fortune  for  myself  &  family,  with  the  means 
of  aiding  others  of  my  own  blood  who  require  my  assist- 
ance. 

JULY  2cA  Find  my  health  not  improving;  had  a  full 
conversation  with  Dr.  Warren ;  he  thinks  I  have  done 
all  that  can  be  effected  by  diet  and  proposes  a  journey,  a 
change  of  scene ;  my  feelings  are  for  a  trip  to  Europe,  & 
requested  him  to  speak  to  Mrs.  Appleton  on  the  subject. 
I  am  eating  a  dispepsey  cracker  &  a  cup  of  tea  for  my 
breakfast,  a  small  piece  of  meat  &  a  cracker  for  dinner, 
and  the  same  at  evening  as  the  morning,  yet  such  is  the 
state  of  my  digestion  that  from  flatulence  I  am  most  of  the 
time  in  positive  pain ;  persons  not  accustomed  to  the  like 
difficulties  would  think  they  had  an  attack  of  colick.  29^. 
My  difficulties  continue  and  I  am  preparing  for  a  voyage 
to  England  to  return  this  Autumn. 

\  UGUST.  Left  for  New  York  on  the  17th,  with  rather 
JTjL  a  heavy  heart  yet  quite  sure  I  was  doing  right.  I 
could  not  get  my  health  without  a  change  and  giving  up 
my  daily  occupations.  My  wife  much  excited  at  my  leav- 
ing, she  thought  I  might  avoid  it;  but  she  will  soon  get 
over  it  and  I  fully  hope  &  believe  her  good,  and  that  of 
my  family,  will  be  promoted  by  so  doing.  On  the  morn- 
ing of  the  18th  I  met  my  excellent  friend  Mr.  N.  Apple- 
ton,  who  had  come  from  Newport  to  see  me  off,  he  has 
ever  been  true  to  me,  on  board  the  "Great  Western,"  in 


74  William  Appleton  [1840 

which  we  took  passage,  my  third  son,  Joseph  Warren,1  & 
my  servant,  Ira  Glidden,  was  my  immediate  party.  We 
sailed  at  3  p.m.  from  the  Wharf;  left  the  Pilot  about  six 
on  evening  of  the  18th.  I  dined  lightly,  took  some  Mag- 
nesia; slept  well;  passed  the  19th  in  reading  the  life  of 
Franklin  by  Mr.  Sparks.  21^.  Early  in  the  morning  re- 
ported to  have  spoken  the  ship  "Nantasket"  36  days  from 
Liverpool.  22w<  We  get  on  well,  occupied  pleasantly  read- 
ing, eating,  playing  whist,  etc.  I  can  hardly  describe  how 
delighted  I  feel  at  being  able  to  join  with  others  in  their 
conversations  &  amusements;  I  have  not  felt  so  well  for 
months.  Sunday,  2yd.  Calm,  near  the  banks  of  New- 
foundland, foggy.  Capt.  Haskins  read  the  service  &  Mr. 
Grant  a  sermon,  very  orderly  &  much  deference  shown 
by  most  of  the  passengers.  Monday,  i\th.  West  wind,  all 
sails  set;  studding  sails,  lower  &  upper,  set:  our  voyage 
appears  to  prosper  &  my  health  improve,  thanks  to  kind 
Heaven.  l^th.  South  West  wind,  going  on  rapidly;  I  find 
Mr.  Grant  a  valuable  acquaintance.  Warren  gets  on  very 
well,  he  appears  quite  a  favourite.  Run,  260  miles  per  log. 
26^.  Wind  North  East — heavy  sea  —  dead  lights  in 
cabin  windows.  27^.  Wind  southerly,  most  of  our  sails  set, 
delightful  morning;  finding  myself  alone,  most  of  the  pas- 
sengers in  their  staterooms,  my  thoughts  return  to  them 
I  left  at  home;  a  pang  passed  my  breast,  but  on  contrasting 
my  present  feelings  free  from  pain,  my  mind  clear,  in  char- 
ity with  &  good  will  to  all  the  world,  I  felt  selfish  enough 
to  give  up  the  society  of  all  I  love  and  the  possession  of 

1  He  changed  his  name  later  to  William. 


1840]  Diary  75 

what  I  have  been  long,  carefully  and  successfully  getting 
together,  &  pass  the  remainder  of  my  days  on  board  Ship, 
rather  than  return  to  endure  the  feelings  I  have  had  to 
contend  with  much  of  the  time  for  the  last  four  months. 
28^.  Passing  rapidly  through  the  water;  they  say  12  miles 
the  hour.  Saturday,  29^.  A  most  delightful  morning,  sea 
smooth,  wind  light,  going  on  rapidly  with  a  clear  sky  — 
went  263  miles  the  last  24  hours;  we  are  now  300  miles 
from  Ireland.  Sunday,  opth.  Cold,  N.  West  wind  —  find  my 
great  coat  &  thick  gloves  desirable.  Monday,  31^.  Very 
unpleasant  cold  N.  E.  wind,  with  rain,  a  heavy  sea;  the 
only  pleasant  thing  is  the  prospect  of  being  in  our  port 
this  evening.  We  arrived  at  our  anchorage,  Kings  Roads, 
at  10  o'clock;  passed  up  by  an  interesting  bold  shore. 

SEPTEMBER  1",  Tuesday.  We  were  called  at  5  this 
morning  to  prepare  for  going  on  shore.  We  arrived 
at  Bristol  about  seven;  very  little  trouble  in  passing  our 
baggage.  Passed  the  morning  in  riding  about  Clifton  & 
Bristol — many  very  fine  Houses  &  other  buildings.  We 
went  to  see  the  Steam  Iron  Ship  building;  it  is  said  she 
will  measure  three  thousand  tons.  I  like  her  model;  she 
may  &  probably  will  answer  the  purpose  intended,  but  I 
should  not  like  the  stock.  Mr.  Haliburton,  Warren  &  my- 
self passed  the  afternoon  in  riding  about  the  City  of  Bath 
and  its  environs.  Bath  is  one  of  the  finest  Towns  in  Eng- 
land, the  prospect  from  the  high  grounds  is  most  splendid. 
We  dined  at  six,  Mr.  Bigelow  of  the  Army  (of  Watertown) 
with  us.  2nd.  Left  Bath;  passed  over  a  most  excellent  road 


76  William  Appleton  [1840 

&  through  a  fine  country,  the  entire  distance  from  Bath 
to  London.  The  grounds  are  in  a  good  state  of  cultiva- 
tion, the  chalk  lands  not  very  productive,  the  dwellings 
are  many  of  them  magnificent.  On  the  whole  I  think  the 
ride  as  interesting  as  any  I  have  seen;  I  had  no  idea  of  the 
difference  between  an  English  and  American  Rail  Road 
before  this  day,  there  is  as  much  as  between  the  elegant 
Mansions  we  have  been  passing  &  our  Humble  Mansions. 
3r<  We  find  ourselves  very  comfortable  at  the  Brunswick 
Hotel,  Hanover  Square;  our  rooms  on  1st  story  above 
the  basement,  fronting  on  the  Square.  Rec'd  a  kind  Note 
from  Mr.  Wiggin,  asking  me  to  come  &  take  a  bed  at 
his  house,  which  I  shall  probably  accept  after  a  few  days. 
Went  to  the  City,  called  at  Baring's;  well  recd  by  Mr. 
Bates  &  Mildmay.  Went  to  see  my  old  friend  Wm  Wms 
Brown;  delighted  to  meet  me  again.  I  go  tomorrow  to 
breakfast  with  him  &  some  of  his  children.  Called  on 
Forbes  &  Co.  I  think  them  intelligent  men.  \th.  Went  to 
Mr.  Wiggin's,  took  up  our  quarters  with  him;  he,  full  of 
old  affairs,  pleased  to  have  some  persons  to  hear  him  talk. 
We  went  to  the  City,  called  at  Baring's,  got  £ioo,  called 
at  some  shops;  returned  home  to  28  Parker  Crescent  in 
the  rain,  dined  pleasantly  at  six,  chatted  till  1 1  o'clock,  & 
retired.  London,  Saturday,  $th.  We  went  to  the  City,  stop- 
ping at  Vauxhall  Market,  then  at  the  tailor's;  returned 
to  lunch  at  One  &  went  again  at  three  to  purchase  car- 
pets, table  linen,  etc.  Sat  up  late  with  Mr.  Wiggin,  getting 
a  history  of  his  early  life,  to  the  trouble  of  poor  relations, 
etc.  Sunday,  6t/l.  We  went  with  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Wiggin  to 


1840]  Diary  77 

Church,  a  very  good  looking  chapel;  pleasant  sermon  of 
Orthodox  character,  church  not  full,  very  few  Males  in 
proportion;  on  our  return  we  stopped  to  lunch  at  Mr. 
Tim^  Wiggin's  on  Roast  beef,  Lamb's  Head,  pudding, 
then  Pears  &  Apples.  Mr.  Peabody,  Mr.  Mildmay,  Mr. 
Coutts,  and  Col.  Mauray  called.  We  went  with  Mr.  & 
Mrs.  Bates  to  the  Zoological  Garden;  took  a  drive  of  some 
three  hours  through  the  west  part  of  London,  Hyde  Park, 
etc.  It  is  beyond  anything  within  the  range  of  my  ideas, 
the  extent  of  this  city.  Saturday,  1 2th.  Left  London  at  1 1 
O'Clock,  arrived  at  Leamington  at  5.  Sunday,  13^.  Dr. 
Jephson  called;  on  seeing  me  he  asked  if  I  was  usually 
so  thin,  and  said  my  liver  wanted  looking  to,  but  con- 
cluded that  unless  I  was  going  to  remain  some  weeks  it 
would  not  be  well  for  me  or  him  to  proceed  further.  He 
bade  me  good  morning,  taking  no  fee;  after  consulting 
Mr.  Montgomery  I  wrote  him  a  note,  &  he  called  again 
&  I  concluded  to  make  this  my  principal  residence  dur- 
ing my  stay  in  England.  In  the  afternoon  we  rode  to  Guy's 
Cliff  &  Warwick  Castle.  Monday,  14A  Left  at  9  o'clock 
for  Liverpool,  the  first  ten  miles  in  Phaeton  to  Coving- 
ton \os.,  boy  2s.,  then  took  Rail  Road  to  Liverpool.  Found 
at  the  Adelphi  a  bundle  of  letters  from  home,  all  of  the 
most  pleasing  character.  Liverpool,  \$th.  Went  into  the 
Coffee  room  &  was  much  pleased  to  see  A.  Lawrence  — 
son  of  Mr.  Amos  Lawrence;  he  had  just  come  in  from  Ire- 
land with  his  friend.  An*1  at  Leamington  at  seven;  found 
Warren  on  the  steps  looking  for  father.  \&h.  Dr.  Jephson 
called;  after  asking  variety  of  questions  as  to  my  head,  if 


78  William  Appleton  [1840 

I  had  turns  of  dizziness,  loss  of  memory,  pain  in  my  sides, 
which  being  answered  in  the  negative,  he  felt  of  my  side, 
back,  &  front,  gave  me  the  direction  for  some  Physick, 
which  I  went  to  get  and  drank  at  the  Apothecary's;  he 
called  again  at  7  o'clock  and  directed  me  to  get  a  further 
medicine,  a  tonic.  We  changed  our  rooms  for  those  more 
cheerful,  particularly  our  sitting  room;  we  pay  £12,  12s., 
6d.  per  week,  exclusive  of  wine.  \jt/l.  Took  a  carriage, 
Warren  &  Ira,  &  went  to  Warwick  Castle,  a  fine  pile  of 
ancient  architecture,  in  the  best  preservation  of  anything  of 
the  kind  I  ever  saw.  We  went  through  the  House  &  castle, 
the  family  being  absent  on  a  tour  to  the  Continent.  We 
then  went  to  Kenilworth;  the  Ruins  are  grand  &  beautiful. 
There  is  no  pleasure  in  looking  at  fallen  greatness;  this 
was  once  a  scene  of  the  greatest  splendour  of  the  time ;  the 
entertainment  by  the  Earl  Leicester  of  Queen  Elizabeth. 
On  our  return  we  found  Mr.  Wiggin  who  had  kindly  come 
from  London  to  join  us.  19^.  After  seeing  Dr.  Jephson, 
who  spoke  very  encouragingly,  we  took  an  open  carriage 
&  went  to  Stratford  on  the  Avon,  where  we  visited  the 
House  where  Shakespeare  was  born,  a  very  small  dwelling 
about  fifteen  feet  front,  two  stories  high,  built  of  wood  & 
mortar;  the  walls  of  the  chamber  where  he  first  saw  light 
were  covered  with  the  names  of  persons  who  had  vis- 
ited the  place.  The  mortal  remains  of  Shakespeare  were 
deposited  in  the  church  in  this  place;  the  House  had  re- 
mained in  possession  of  the  family  until  1806.  We  returned 
to  Leamington  and  Mr.  Amos  A.  Lawrence,  Amos'  son, 
joined  us.  22w<  Lawrence  &  Weston  left  us  for  Birmingham 


1840]  Diary  79 

&  sent  back  by  Post  boy  a  letter  saying  they  had  engaged 
tickets  for  us  at  the  Musical  festival  on  Thursday.  Wednes- 
day, 2yd.  Went  in  the  usual  course  to  the  Pump  Room, 
took  two  tumblers  of  warm  water.  24A  We  left  for  Birming- 
ham to  attend  the  Musical  festival.  We  went  with  our  guinea 
tickets  to  the  Hall,  and  a  very  good  one,  but  we  found 
no  seats  for  us.  There  were  some  Hundreds  of  musicians. 
Brahms  was  the  first  to  sing  in  the  Messiah  ;  the  Organ  was 
very  powerful  and  when  all  in  full  chorus  it  was,  even  to  my 
dull  ears  for  music,  overpowering.  We  arrived  at  London  at 
seven.  Friday,  25th.  Fully  occupied  in  picking  up  my  little 
affairs  for  those  I  most  love,  and  in  preparation  (Heaven 
willing)  to  soon  join  them.  Mr.  Augustus  Thorndike  came 
from  Paris  to  see  me;  we  talked  some  five  or  six  hours, 
I  think  I  did  him  good.  Saturday,  2&h.  Warren  went  to 
Blenheim  with  Mr.  Lawrence  &  Mason.  I  talked  till  near 
twelve  o'clock  with  Mr.  Bates;  he  tells  me  to  leave  off  busi- 
ness, that  I  am  not  aware  of  the  effect  it  has  on  my  health. 
I  fancy  he  knows  less  of  me  than  I  do  of  myself.  27^,  Leam- 
ington. Arrived  here  at  a  little  before  4 o'clock.  Mr.  Wiggin 
has  been  all  attention  to  us.  He  has  many  good  points;  of 
his  peculiarities  it  becomes  not  me  to  speak,  when  receiv- 
ing his  hospitality.  Thursday,  30^.  Dr.  Jephson  made  his  last 
visit,  I  think  well  of  him;  he  told  me  my  complaints  were 
within  controul,  yet  without  much  care  in  diet,  exercise, 
etc.,  there  was  great  danger  of  a  general  decay  of  the  whole 
body.  If  I  ate  and  drank  like  persons  in  health  I  should 
very  soon  be  in  my  grave.  He  hoped  to  hear  of  and  from 
me  on  my  return.  We  left  for  Birmingham,  where  we  slept. 


80  William  Appleton  [1840 

OCTOBER  3^,  Liverpool.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bates  arrived 
from  London.  I  think  very  well  of  him  &she  is  a  good 
hearted  woman,  has  not  much  mind.  Sunday,  4A  News 
of  the  Attack  of  the  British  fleet  on  Bey  rout.  Mr.  Bates 
thinks  there  will  be  no  war.  At  midday  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bates 
took  a  carriage  &  accompanied  me  to  the  Steamer,  where 
we  took  leave.  At  three  o'clock  we  commenced  our  voyage, 
the  weather  very  fine,  which  continued  for  most  of  the 
week.  On  Saturday,  at  night  the  wind  blew  very  hard, 
they  called  it  a  severe  gale;  during  the  gale  we  made  good 
work,  from  six  to  eight  miles  the  Hour.  We  arrived  at 
Halifax  on  Thursday,  and  arrived  on  Saturday  Morning  in 
Boston,  thirty-two  hours  from  Halifax,  &  twelve  &  a  half 
days  from  Liverpool.  Our  passage  pleasant  and  an  uncom- 
mon pleasant  set  of  passengers.  Among  them  Judge  Por- 
ter of  Louisiana,  Professor  Moore  of  New  York,  Rev.  Mr. 
Strong  from  Canada,  Col.  Houston,  Col.  Gascoin,  Capt. 
Shirley  and  Lady,  Maj.  Ervin,  U.  S.  A.,  Mr.  Trapman,  & 
Mr.  Davis  of  Charleston.  There  was  no  dispute  or  trouble 
during  the  voyage ;  our  vessel  &  Captain,  first  rate :  the  ser- 
vants not  accustomed  to  their  business  but  with  good  in- 
tentions. The  "  Great  Western"  much  the  most  comfortable 
Vessel  particularly  for  the  summer.  \~jth.  I  find  myself  at 
home  again  after  an  absence  of  sixty  days.  My  family  and 
friends  I  find  well,  nothing  unpleasant  has  occurred  since 
I  left.  We  had  to  pass  the  evening  with  us,  some  fifty  of 
our  passengers  and  our  friends  of  this  place  invited  to  meet 
them.  My  time  taken  up  in  seeing  my  friends  and  accom- 


1840]  Diary  81 

panying  Mr.  Stewart,  Capt.  &  Mrs.  Shirley  to  the  Navy 
Yard  &  Bunker  Hill.  18'^.  I  went  to  church  I  trust  with 
a  grateful  heart  for  the  many  blessings  that  surround  me. 
19^.  Went  to  Mrs.  Eustis'  to  show  the  House1  to  Capt. 
Shirley.  io^d.  Delightful  day;  went  with  Mrs.  A.  to  see  my 
Mother  and  family.  25^.  In  the  course  of  the  night  Thunder 
&  snow  which  quite  covered  the  ground,  &  in  the  country 
fifty  miles,  sufficient  for  sleighing.  30^.  We  got  accounts 
from  New  York  of  the  arrival  of  the  "  Delhi "  from  Canton, 
the  prospect  is  in  favour  of  our  making  a  very  good  voy- 
age, I  fancy  two  hundred  thousand  dollars  net. 

NOVEMBER  17 'A.  Capt.  Shirley  sent  me  a  letter  by 
Capt.  Le  Merchant;  he  was  but  one  day  with  us, 
a  pleasant  ge^man,  aide  to  the  Gov.  Gen1  of  Canada.  18^. 
Went  to  our  place  at  Brookline  to  look  after  Sheridan  who 
had  commenced  putting  out  some  trees.  I  find  I  have  some 
cold ;  doubt  if  I  get  through  the  winter  in  this  climate. 
20th.  Ship  "Charlotte"  arrived;  twenty-eight  days  from 
Liverpool. 

DECEMBER  2nd.  Left  for  New  York  at  the  request 
of  the  Banks  in  this  City  to  devise  measures  to 
aid  the  Banks  in  Philadelphia  to  resume  specie  payment. 
~jth.  Left  New  York  in  "  Narragansett,"  arrived  in  Boston 
in  fourteen  Hours.  q*K  Engaged  in  making  up  the  amount 
required  to  loan  the  Phild  Banks.  My  belief  is  that  the 
resumption  will  be  an  efficient  one ;  that  the  finances  of 

1  Shirley-Eustis  House. 


82  William  Appleton  [1840 

the  Country  will  improve ;  the  U.  S.  Bank  will  become 
more  in  favour ;  but  the  real  state  and  management  of  the 
bank  has  been  and  is  bad,  very  bad,  awfully  so.  'Thursday, 
31^,  10  o'clock  p.m.  Returned  from  Assembly  at  Papanti's ; 
left  Mrs.  A.,  Amory  &  wife,  &  my  two  eldest  daughters 
to  dance  out  the  old  &  in  the  New  Year,  as  the  saying  is. 
How  we  trifle  with  time,  health  and  all  that  is  valuable! 
My  belief  is  that  my  indisposition  is  much  increased  by 
too  much  weight  on  my  mind;  when  quite  free  from  cir- 
cumstances to  embarrass  and  vex  me,  I  am  quite  well. 

1841 

JANUARY  1*.  Mrs.  Appleton  is  laid  up  from  the  late 
hours  of  the  last  night  or  this  morning;  the  younger 
part  of  the  family  are  out  in  various  directions — Frank, 
Mary  Ann  &  Sarah  at  Mrs.  T.  H.  Perkins  jr.'s ;  the 
smaller  children  at  Mrs.  Lowell's.  I  must  endeavour  to 
correct  my  faults  and  improve  my  habits;  my  usefulness 
and  probably  my  life  depends  on  my  so  doing ;  it  is  quite 
clear  to  my  mind  that  I  have  had  too  much  business;  I 
am  very  anxious  about  the  affairs  of  others  under  my  con- 
troul.  I  do  not  neglect  going  to  Church,  saying  my  prayers 
with  my  children,  &  in  private,  but  there  is  a  coldness  not 
to  be  mistaken.  I  read  less  than  I  might,  think  less  on  re- 
ligious subjects.  I  will  lessen  my  business  and  see  if  I  can- 
not, with  God's  help,  pass  this  year  more  in  accordance  with 
His  will.  2nd.  Went  to  ride  with  Mary  Ann;  excellent 
sleighing.  I  have  much  reason  to  be  pleased  with  my  two 


1841]  Diary  83 

eldest  daughters,  they  have  excellent  health,  good  dispo- 
sitions and  quite  pleasing  in  their  manners.  Sarah  quite 
the  belle  I  am  told  by  my  friends.  Mr.  Quincy  speaks  very 
well  of  Frank;  his  rank  appeared  to  be  19  in  a  class  of 
sixty  to  seventy;  deportment  good;  stands  well  with  his 
associates.  bth.  Meeting  Lowell  rail  road  Prop.,  Apple  ton 
Company  &  Lowell  Company;  all  well  managed  corpo- 
rations. 7^.  Went  to  Lowell  to  examine  the  Middlesex 
Company's  establishment  with  Mr.  G.  W.  Lyman  &  J.  A. 
Lowell.  The  buildings  are  good,  the  Machinery  equal  to 
any  in  this  Country.  Sth.  A  large  party  at  Mr.  Cleveland's, 
Jamaica  Plain.  9^.  We  have  accounts  from  England  to 
the  14th  ultimo,  from  Canton  6th  August  &  Calcutta 
to  6th  October;  the  English  appear  to  meet  with  very  little 
opposition  in  their  first  attacks  on  the  Chinese  Towns; 
in  my  opinion  they  will  soon  bring  the  Chinese  to  terms. 
Were  I  governed  by  my  opinion  I  should  sell  our  tea,  but 
Mr.  Lawrence,  Oxnard  &  Amory  think  better  of  holding 
than  I  do  and  I  am  willing  to  comply  with  their  feelings 
in  part  but  intend  to  make  some  sales  the  first  opportunity. 
14^.  Meeting  Bunker  Hill  Monument  Association:  I  paid 
over  the  donation  of  Mr.  Truro  of  ten  thousand  dollars. 
A  committee  was  appointed  to  prepare  an  inscription  for 
a  tablet  to  be  placed  on  the  Monument,  describing  the 
object  for  which  it  was  built.  I  was  chosen,  but  declined, 
not  feeling  as  if  I  should  find  myself  at  home  with  J.  Q. 
Adams,  Webster,  Everett,  Storrow,  etc. ;  my  modesty  does 
not  often  trouble  me.  Went  to  Cambridge  and  brought 
in  Frank,  his  vacation  commenced  this  day.  \$th.  Suffered 


84  William  Appleton  [1841 

much  the  last  night  by  pain  in  my  face  and  went  this 
morning  and  had  two  teeth  extracted,  almost  the  last  of 
my  back  teeth.  An  empty  house  is  said  to  be  preferable  to 
bad  tenants.  i8M.  Mrs.  Appleton  &  the  young  ladies  at- 
tended the  Ball  at  Papanti's.  22nd.  Mrs.  Appleton  &  the 
young  ladies  were  at  Mrs.  Ticknor's,  Frank  their  beau;  the 
parties  the  present  season  are  more  numerous  than  usual;  I 
do  not  join  them.  27 /A.  Mr.  Benj.  Gilbert,  native  of  Brook- 
field,  a  friend  of  my  father  &  mother,  Amory  &  Mary 
also,  dined  with  us.  30^.  Wrote  Goodhue  &  Co.  to  sell  one 
thousand  of  the  chests  Canton  Young  Hyson  Tea  at  sev- 
enty cents;  they  stating  they  can  get  that  price  from  Phild  : 
speculation. 

FEBRUARY  V*.  We  have  accounts  from  China  5th 
Oct.:  there  appears  to  be  a  prospect  of  an  adjustment 
of  the  difficulties  between  England  &  China.  The  tea  hold- 
ers are  much  alarmed;  what  will  be  the  effect  in  this  coun- 
try it  is  quite  difficult  to  say.  I  fancy  when  the  next  news 
comes  it  will  be  less  alarming  and  business  will  begin  again, 
but  prices  will  not  again  get  up  to  those  lately  obtained. 
2nd.  Mrs.  Appleton  had  small  party.  I  went  the  last  night 
with  the  young  ladies  to  the  Assembly,  quite  pleasant — 
although  a  snowstorm.  ofd.  Fine  sleighing.  Frank  &  the 
young  ladies  have  gone  on  a  party  to  Mrs.  Guild's  with 
Mrs.  Ticknor  &c.  5th.  Dined  at  Mr.  Oxnard's,  a  large  & 
pleasant  party;  Mrs.  A.  &  the  young  ladies  were  at  Mrs. 
Minot's.  6M.  We  have  accounts  of  the  suspension  of  the 
U.  S.  Banks  of  Pennsylvania.  I  fancy  they  must  go  into 


1841]  Diary  85 

liquidation  —  bad  —  bad  —  bad.  7th.  Party  at  Mrs.  Am- 
ory's  (family  Party).  gt/l.  Party,  Mrs.  Nathan  Appleton's, 
very  pleasant.  ii«*.  Party  at  Mrs.  John  C.  Gray's  &  Mrs. 
Rogers'.  12^.  Party,  Mrs.  George  Gardner's.  \$th.  Mrs.  Ap- 
pleton  &  young  ladies  at  Assembly.  l\th.  Left  for  New- 
York.  I  find  it  very  pleasant  to  have  Ira  with  me.  26^. 
Attended  sale  of  tea  which  sold  for  about  fifteen  cents  less 
than  the  price  in  December. 

MARCH  *]*K  At  Church  with  all  the  children.  Mr. 
Stone  preached.  30^.  Called  on  Sir  George  Arthur, 
Gov.  Canada.  31".  Visited  Navy  Yard,  Bunker  Hill,  &  Mt. 
Wachusett  with  Sir  George  Arthur,  a  pleasant,  gentle- 
manly man. 

\  PRIL  3r<  Frank  was  at  dinner  with  his  friends  Rod- 
jLx.  man  &  Nichols.  $th.  This  morning  we  are  informed 
of  the  death  of  Gen1  Harrison,  President  of  the  U.  States: 
an  event  which  may  produce  much  derangement  in  the 
Government,  but  my  belief  is  that  it  will  rather  tend  to 
conciliate  the  feelings  of  the  opposing  men  to  the  present 
Colonel.  bth.  The  engagement  between  our  second  daugh- 
ter and  Mr.  A.  A.  Lawrence  was  made  known;  I  have  not 
been  very  desirous  that  she  should  accept  him  at  present, 
feeling  that  she  was  very  young,  had  seen  little  of  the 
world,  with  much  to  attract  in  her  person  &  manners.  I 
wished  her  to  take  time  &  deliberate,  but  she  thinks  she 
knows  her  mind,  and  I  trust  all  will  be  right.  He  is  a 
young  man  of  good  common  sense,  with  business  habits, 


86  William  Appleton  [1841 

a  very  safe  man  to  entrust  a  daughter  with;  if  she  loves 
him  &  respects  him  there  can  be  no  reasonable  objection 
on  the  part  of  her  parents.  7th.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Abbott  Law- 
rence &  the  various  members  of  the  family  called.  8th. 
Annual  Fast.  Went  to  prayer  at  St.  Paul's  Chapel;  attended 
service  at  Federal  Street,  Mr.  Gannett  preached  an  occa- 
sional sermon,  alluding  to  the  death  of  the  President  of 
the  United  States;  attended  service  at  St.  Paul's  in  the 
evening  with  Mr.  N.  Amory  &  Mrs.  A.  12^.  Left  for  New 
York  and  met  a  violent  snowstorm,  so  remained  in  Ston- 
ington  during  the  night.  13^.  Arrive  din  N.York  at  4  P.M.; 
find  they  have  had  a  greater  fall  of  snow  than  at  any  one 
time  this  season.  14^.  Sold  about  half  the  tea  we  have 
belonging  to  Ship  "Delhi"  owners,  at  very  good  prices; 
fully  equal  to  those  of  Nov.  last.  15^.  Engaged  in  busi- 
ness ;  called  at  Mr.  Oakey's  &  several  other  places.  Evening 
left  for  Boston,  found  at  the  Boat  Mrs.  T.  Cary,  Sir  John 
Caldwell,  Lady  Arthur  &  family,  pleasant  persons.  2oM. 
Grand  procession  and  Eulogy  by  Mr.  Choate  on  the  death 
of  the  President  of  the  U.  States,  Gen1  Harrison.  26^.  Went 
to  Medford  to  see  the  "  Mary  Ellen  "  launched.  Mrs.  J.  A. 
A.1  &  our  Harriet  &  Hetty  made  the  party.  29^.  Left  for 
New  York,  quite  pleasant;  when  we  arrived  at  Stonington 
Wind  changed  to  N.East,  violent  gale ;  our  boat  (the  "  Mo- 
hican") with  many  goods  on  deck  broached  to,  laid  on  her 
side  for  some  time;  much  alarm  and  danger;  I  remained 
in  my  berth  feeling  I  could  do  no  good  on  deck,  and  if 
we  were  to  be  lost  I  might  as  well  go  down  in  the  boat  as 

1  Her  name  was  Mary  Ellen. 


1841]  Diary  87 

to  be  drowned  outside ;  I  thought  the  danger  less  than  it 
was;  I  endeavoured  to  recollect  if  there  was  anything  I 
had  left  in  an  unfinished  state,  but  as  to  my  Worldly  affairs, 
I  had  nothing  that  required  my  particular  attention.  We 
arrived  at  New  York  at  eight  o'clock. 

MAY  \th.  Frank  had  a  part  at  exhibition;  got  through 
very  well,  a  very  good  lad.  11'*.  Left  with  Mary 
Ann  &  Sarah  for  N.  Y.;  the  young  Ladies  went  to  visit 
Mrs.  Meredith  at  Staten  Island.  18^.  Engaged  in  getting 
the  "Mary  Ellen"  ready  for  sea;  I  wrote  orders  for  Mr. 
Heard  &  cleared  ship.  10th.  Ship  sailed  with  a  light  fair 
wind.  26^.  Sale,  Gov.  Winthrop's  furniture  &  wine. 

JULY  9^.  Mary  Ann,  Sarah,  &  Frank  left  with  me  for 
a  trip  to  Niagara  &  Canada.  Slept  at  Springfield,  a  very 
good  House.  10^.  Went  to  the  Cabot  Mills  &  the  Armory. 
Took  the  cars  for  Chester  Mills,  then  a  stage  for  Pittsfield. 
\\th,  Sunday.  Took  a  Carriage,  went  to  the  Shakers' after 
service,  &  went  to  Albany.  \lth.  Went  to  Schenectady. 
13^.  At  Saratoga.  14A  To  Utica.  15^.  Went  to  Trenton 
Falls,  much  pleased;  returned  to  Utica  to  sleep.  16^.  Left 
at  5  a.m.  At  Syracuse  took  Canal  Boat  for  Oswego,  then 
Steamer  for  Lewiston;  the  passage  was  rough  and  not  pleas- 
ant. 17^.  Arrived  at  Lewiston  &  Niagara — at  Cataract 
House,  well  accommodated.  i8M,  Sunday.  We  passed  most 
of  our  time  on  Goat  Island.  19^.  Went  to  the  Canada 
side  of  the  river  and  passed  the  day  viewing  the  Falls  from 
various  points.  2.0th.  Left  for  Toronto,  a  good  looking  Place, 


88  William  Appleton  [1841 

some  20™  Inhabitants.  2iJ/.  Went  to  view  the  Troops,  a 
Highland  Regiment.  2^rd.  Arrived  at  Montreal  (Roscoe's 
Hotel).  Captain  and  Mrs.  Shirley  took  us  to  the  Circus, 
Hussar  Barracks,  and  had  the  Band  entertain  us,  &c;  dined 
with  them  very  pleasantly.  24A  At  Church  &  dined  with 
Mess  85th  Regiment.  25th.  Rode  with  Shirleys  to  the 
Country  and  Racecourse  to  see  his  Horses,  and  left  for 
Quebec.  26^.  Went  with  Col.  Gascoin  and  Col.  Clive  to 
Montmorency  and  to  the  Fortifications,  Plains  of  Abra- 
ham, &c.  27^.  Dined  at  a  Pick  Nick  at  Col.  Gascoin's 
Rooms  with  some  dozen  Officers;  much  pleased  by  their 
attentions;  left  at  evening  for  Montreal.  28^.  Mr.  &  Mrs. 
Shirley  &  Majr  Dickinson  dined  with  us.  29^.  Col.  Gray 
quite  civil  to  us,  wished  us  to  remain  to  see  his  Regi- 
ment, &c.  Arrived  at  Burlington  at  7  A.M.,  at  Ticonderoga 
at  1 1  O'clock,  more  company  than  room.  30^.  Went  to 
Lake  George,  delightful  day.  31^,  Sunday.  We  passed  the 
day  very  pleasantly. 

AUGUST  \st.  Arrived  at  Saratoga,  slept  at  Troy.  2nd. 
£jL  Dined  at  Mr.  Warren's  and  took  passage  for  New 
York.  3r<  "  Akbar"  with  Mrs.  Coolidge  arrived  from  Can- 
ton. \th.  Arrived  in  Boston  and  found  all  well.  26^.  Mr. 
R.  D.  Shepherd  dined  with  us  &  passed  the  night. 

OCTOBER   l".  Col.  Bentinck  of    the    Coldstream 
Guards  dined  with  us;  a  gentlemanly  person.  2nd. 
Took  Col.  Bentinck  to  Boston,  he  sailed  in  the  Steamer  for 

1  Mr.  Joseph  Coolidge  was  in  business  there  with  Mr.  Heard. 


1841]  Diary  89 

Liverpool.  24A  At  Trinity  Church,  took  Lord  Morpeth. 
Bishop  of  Tennessee  preached.  29^.  Amory  23  years  old. 

NOVEMBER  1*.  Engaged  in  preparing  to  get  the 
"  Charlotte  "  ready  for  a  voyage  to  India.  24A  Ball  at 
Faneuil  Hall  for  the  Prince.1  25^,  thanksgiving.  Party  of 
some  fifty  at  my  House.  J.  A.  Appleton's  first  child  born. 
2Qt/l.  Quite  an  excitement  in  the  Money  Market.  30^. 
Rode  with  Mr.  Abbott  Lawrence;  he  is  quite  alarmed  for 
great  Houses  in  London. 

DECEMBER  \*K  My  old  friend  Dr.  Potter2  arrived 
and  will  pass  a  few  days  at  our  House.  12^.  Dr.  Pot- 
ter Preached  at  St.  Paul's,  Trinity  &  Grace  Church,  I  like 
him  better  than  ever;  he  is  first  rate;  he  has  character  and 
more  tact  than  any  man  of  his  profession  I  ever  knew. 
Christmas.  Mrs.  Amory, daughters,  &  Thomas,  Mr.  &  Mrs. 
N.  Amory,  Mr.  Lawrence  and  all  our  children  dined  with 
us.  They  appeared  happy,  not  so  with  me  as  I  see  by  the 
New  York  American  that were  indicted  for  get- 
ting goods  by  false  pretences.  This  will  be  a  most  distress- 
ing business;  they  must  lose  their  reputation  at  best, and  the 
interesting  family  suffer  unjustly  for  their  father's  indiscre- 
tion; he  does  not  intend  doing  wrong  but  he  comes  so  near 
it  in  thought  and  action  that  it  is  difficult  to  find  an  excuse 
for  him. 


1  Prince  de  Joinville.  Quincy  and  Faneuil  Halls  were  connected  for  the  occasion. 
3  Afterwards  Bishop  of  Pennsylvania. 


go  William  Appleton  [1842 

1842 

JANUARY  ioth.  Mrs.  Appleton  had  a  party  for  the 
Lawrences;  very  pleasant.  7&h.  Most  delightful 
weather.  Went  before  a  Committee  of  the  Legislature  in 
relation  to  Cambridge  Bridge. 

FEBRUARY  fh  Attended  Meeting  of  Sugar  Refin- 
ery stockholders  and  resigned  my  treasurership ;  we 
have  got  on  pleasantly  with  the  business,  but  they  are  a  poor 
set  and  will  be  in  difficulty  within  one  year;  I  have  no  con- 
fidence in  them.  ofK  Strong  N.  W.  Wind.  "Barnstable" 
sailed  for  the  coast  of  California.  1  Ith.  Meeting  Proprietors 
West  Boston  Bridge.  19^.  Remained  in  the  House,  not 
quite  well,  very  nervous;  if  they  do  not  get  through  with 
V  trial  soon,  they  will  kill  me! 

MARCH  2nd.  Harriet  had  a  party  of  Ladies  and  Lads 
the  last  night,  of  about  sixty.  I  do  not  like  them. 
25^,  Good  Friday.  Attended  prayers  at  the  Chapel  in  the 
morning,  sermon  by  Dr.  Vinton  in  the  Church;  attended 
Price  lecture  at  Trinity  and  at  our  Chapel  in  the  evening; 
very  full.  27^,  Easter  Sunday.  Our  dear  Mary  Ann  went 
for  the  first  time  to  the  Communion;  I  felt  it  much.  Of  the 
many,  very  many  blessings  I  have,  that  of  our  children  ap- 
pearing to  have  religious  feelings,  I  feel  most.  I  have  felt 
more  as  I  think  a  Christian  should  feel  this  day,  than  for 

1 A  friend  who  got  into  financial  difficulties. 


1842]  Diary  91 

many ;  I  will  most  earnestly  pray  that  I  may  give  myself 
up  to  my  Maker.  I  believe,  Help,  Lord,  my  unbelief.  28^. 
Had  a  long  conversation  with  Mr.  Vinton,  quite  unsettled 
in  my  mind.  I  then  went  to  Mr.  N.  Appleton's  Store  and 
met  Mr.  J.  K.  Mills  who  said  to  Mr.  Appleton,  "  I  went  to 
hear  Dr.  Vinton  and  saw  Wm  there,  was  told  he  went  three 
times  each  day  to  Church."  I  said  it  was  the  season  of  our 
Church  for  many  services,  rather  apologizing,  &c.  Awoke 
in  the  night  with  a  feeling  as  if  I  had  discovered  in  a 
dream  my  difficulty;  it  was  that  I  was  not  willing  to  give 
myself  up  to  my  Maker,  that  I  was  disposed  to  give  the 
World  more  than  the  half  of  my  heart,  that  I  was  not  will- 
ing that  a  portion  of  my  friends  should  know  that  I  went 
to  meet  religious  men,  that  I  made  excuses  for  going  to  a 
place  of  worship  other  than  on  Sunday,  that,  in  fact,  I  was 
ashamed  to  acknowledge  myself  the  follower  of  Him  who 
died  for  my  sins;  such  were  my  sensations,  I  could  not 
again  get  to  sleep.  I  awoke  my  wife,  told  her  of  some  of 
my  feelings;  when  I  left  my  room  I  felt  as  if  I  wished  an 
opportunity  of  showing  myself  to  the  whole  World  and 
to  declare  that  henceforth  I  would  make  religion  my  first 
&  great  object  of  life.  29^.  Went  at  8  o'clock  to  Prayers 
where  I  had  a  conversation  with  Mr.  Vinton,  told  him  my 
feelings;  he  encouraged  me  by  saying  it  was  the  work  of 
God.  30^.  I  find  myself  quite  happy  and  satisfied  with  the 
resolutions  to  be  a  whole  Christian.  At  lecture  in  the  even- 
ing, much  pleased  and  enjoyed  the  service  much.  31^. Quite 
engaged  in  the  morning  after  prayers  at  the  Chapel  attend- 
ing to  the  preparation  for  the  Marriage  of  our  dear  Sarah 


92  William  Appleton  [1842 

to  Mr.  Lawrence.  I  found  my  feelings  various  &  conflict- 
ing ;  the  giving  up  of  an  affectionate,  kind,  lovely  daughter 
causes  sensations  not  easily  described.  I  have  much  con- 
fidence in  him,  and  great  in  her  judgment  &  kindness  of 
heart.  I  think  if  she  has  health  she  will  be  a  useful  woman. 
The  ceremony  was  performed  by  Mr.  Vinton  in  a  very 
acceptable  manner,  in  the  presence  of  many  of  our  rela- 
tions &  friends;  after  which  our  House  was  filled  with  our 
acquaintances;  they  left  generally  at  y2  past  ten  when 
the  wedding  party  of  about  sixty  supped  informally.  Thus 
ended  the  day,  and  I  surrendered  my  dear  second  daughter 
to  another's  care  with  ardent  prayer  to  Almighty  God  to 
grant  her  His  protection  and  the  blessings  of  His  grace. 

\  PRIL  \$*K  Amory's  son  was  christened  George  Ly- 
xi  man.  They  (the  father  &  mother)  dined  with  us.  16^. 
Frank  &  myself  called  on  Dr.  Warren  in  relation  to  Frank's 
going  to  China.  19^.  Arrived  at  New  York,  engaged  in  ar- 
ranging tea  sale.  i\st.  Arrived  at  home,  found  all  busy  with 
various  business  getting  Frank's  arrangements  made,  &c; 
David  Sears,  jr.,  is  going  with  Frank  to  China.  IInd.  Went 
in  Morning  with  Mrs.  A.  &  most  of  the  family  to  prayers 
at  Chapel.  Engaged  in  Business  as  usual,  a  meeting  at  Mr. 
Reynolds'  at  evening.  23r<  Quite  occupied,  too  much 
so  for  my  own  good.  28^.  Much  engaged  in  getting  the 
"Delhi"  ready  for  sea.  At  5  o'clock  she  left  the  wharf  with 
our  dear  Frank  as  passenger  in  company  with  David  Sears, 
jr.,  and  the  son  of  Mr.  George  Howe.  I  felt  much  in  part- 
ing with  my  dear  boy ;  there  is  much  in  him  to  love  &  ad- 


1842]  Diary  93 

mire,  proud  &  independent,  careful  of  his  Reputation,  ex- 
cellent feelings,  opinionated,  not  inclined  to  be  much  con- 
trolled, yet  would  not  act  in  opposition  to  his  father.  His 
intercourse  with  men  will  improve  him;  I  feel  as  if  he  had 
within  him  the  talents  to  be  very  useful  and  acceptable 
in  the  World.  opth.  Went  to  Cambridge  with  Mr.  Vinton; 
called  on  Mr.  Greenleaf,  much  talk  as  to  Theological 
Seminary:  I  said,  "Now  is  the  time  to  begin;  if  you  Gent1 
will  put  things  as  they  should  be,  I  will  purchase  the  House 
opposite  the  Craigie  place,  if  it  is  to  be  had  for  ten  thousand 
dollars.  Wind  West — fine  time  the  "Delhi "  probably  has. 

MAY  Ist.  Communion  Sunday.  I  have  never  before 
felt  so  much  interest  in  Missions;  I  feel  much  in- 
clined to  give  the  balance  of  my  income  to  religious  ob- 
jects, not  confined  to  Missionaries,  but  to  the  education 
of  ministers  &  workers  for  Christ.  I  feel  that  it  is  a  true 
test  of  a  man's  religion,  his  desire  to  impart  it  to  others. 
Monday  Morning,  2nd,  My  mind  dwelt  most  of  the  night  on 
the  subject  of  which  I  was  contemplating  last  evening.  I 
think  my  true  course  is  to  spend  my  income  as  above  stated. 
Amory  fully  agrees  with  me  in  the  course  I  propose.  27^. 
Arrived  at  home  from  New  York.  Mary  Ann  with  Amory 
and  wife  &  Master  George  gone  to  see  my  Mother.  29^. 
An  interesting  day  to  us:  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Lawrence,  Mary 
Ann  &  forty-five  others  have  been  confirmed  by  Bishop 
Griswold.  I  have  seldom  felt  more  grateful  to  kind  Provi- 
dence than  this  day  in  seeing  my  children  go  to  the  Altar 
&  making  a  publick  profession  of  religion. 


94  William  Appleton  [1842 

JUNE  6th.  Went  with  Warren  &  William  Burnham  to 
Mount  Vernon;  found  my  good  mother  very  weak,  I 
think  she  will  not  live  many  days!  She  was  in  a  delight- 
ful state  of  mind,  quite  ready  to  go.  It  was  the  pleasant- 
est  visit  to  her  I  ever  made.  What  cannot  Heaven  do!  8t/l. 
Put  up  an  Organ,  a  present  to  our  Chapel  from  my  Wife. 
lQthm  Went  to  visit  my  mother,  she  will  not  continue  long. 
18^.  Went  to  Mount  Vernon  and  found  my  mother  quite 
as  well  as  when  I  left  her  some  days  since,  but  quite  ner- 
vous. 22w<  Went  with  a  Nurse  for  my  Mother;  found  her 
much  as  when  last  at  Mount  Vernon.  25^.  Recd  a  letter 
dated  this  morning  stating  my  mother  was  changing  rap- 
idly. I  left  at  two  O'clock  for  Mount  Vernon,  arrived  at 
six,  found  my  mother  quite  low;  she  apparently  knew  me 
but  was  unable  to  speak :  her  spirit  took  its  flight  about 
ten  o'clock  without  any  struggle.  26^.  Melancholy  day! 
She,  who  gave  me  existence,  who  watched  over  my  in- 
fancy, the  adviser  of  my  youth  &  of  maturer  years,  is  gone 
to  the  World  of  spirits.  She  was  the  daughter  of  Jacob 
Hook1  of  Kingston,  N.  H.,  a  man  of  excellent  Character, 
&  large  property  for  the  place.  He  had  no  son,  but  three 
daughters;  the  Eldest  married  Mr.  Sanborn,  who  lived  & 
died  at  Kingston,  aged  eighty-three;  the  second,  my  mother, 
was  said  to  be  a  young  woman  of  much  beauty  &  accom- 
plishments for  the  time;  she  became  acquainted  with  my 

1  Jacob  Hook,  b.  1724,  d.  1 802.  "  He  visited  his  widowed  daughter,  coming  on 
horseback,  followed  by  his  faithful  slave  Pompey.  He  was  a  fine  figure  with 
queue  and  short  clothes  and  ruffles." 


1842]  Diary  95 

father  while  he  was  preaching  at  Kingston,  where  he  was  in- 
vited to  settle,  but  declined.  They  were  married  &  went  to 
reside  at  Brookfield,  where  he  was  settled  as  Minister  of  the 
North  Parish,  where  he  remained  through  the  remainder 
of  his  life.  (He  died  at  forty-four.)  My  Mother,  a  woman 
of  feeble  health  in  that  portion  of  her  life  while  having 
Children,  showed  much  energy  in  the  management  of  the 
estate  of  my  father,  and  the  care  of  her  Children.  The 
property  was  sold  at  Brookfield  &  we  removed  to  Kings- 
ton, &  from  there  to  a  farm  given  my  Mother  by  her 
father  at  Hawke,1  where  we  remained  until  1798,  about 
three  years,  when  my  mother  married  Major  Daniel  Gould 
of  Lyndborough,  N.  H.,  where  she  went  with  the  family 
to  reside.  Mr.  Gould  died  after  about  five  years  &  my 
Mother  went  to  live  at  Hillsborough  with  my  sister  Mrs. 
Starrett,  where  she  remained  until  1812  when  she  removed 
to  Mount  Vernon,  where  she  passed  the  remainder  of  her 
days.  She  was  a  woman  of  a  remarkably  strong  mind, 
quick  of  apprehension,  inclined  to  be  playful  &  witty,  &, 
but  for  the  sense  of  duty,  would  have  often  been  satirical. 
From  the  time  my  father  died  she  was  very  particular  in 
giving  her  children  religious  instruction,  praying  with  them 
in  her  Chamber.  She  was  early  a  communicant  of  the 
Church,  but  often  spoke  of  her  unworthiness,  &  appeared 
at  times  much  depressed  as  to  the  true  state  of  her  heart 
with  her  God;  these  feelings  continued  until  nearly  the 
close  of  her  life,  when  she  had  full  confidence  in  our  Re- 
deemer's atonement.  She  died  in  a  most  happy  state  of 

1  Near  Kingston,  New  Hampshire. 


96  William  Appleton  [1842 

mind,  aged  eighty-six  the  last  February.  2Tjth.  Funeral  ser- 
vice performed  by  the  Minister  of  Mount  Vernon  at  the 
late  residence  of  my  Mother.  I  left  after  the  service  with 
the  Corpse,  remained  at  Nashua  for  the  night;  the  follow- 
ing day  we  had  a  funeral  service  in  St.  Paul's  Church1  by 
Mr.  Watson,  the  minister  of  Mount  Vernon;  Dr.  Warren 
&  our  family  were  present  and  the  body  was  deposited  in 
my  tomb  under  the  Church. 

JULY  Ist.  We  have  Presf  Tyler's  Veto  of  little  Tariff— 
bad  business.  22»<  Amory  &  family  left  us  to  pass  a  few 
days  at  Waltham;  he  is  a  great  comfort  to  me.  If  he  has 
health  he  will  be  a  useful  man  in  society.  A  fine  boy  he 
has.  23rd.  Went  with  Warren,  Mary  Ann,  Harriet,  Hetty, 
Charles  and  Miss  E.  Warren  to  witness  the  putting  on  the 
top  stone  of  Bunker  Hill  Monument.  Dr.  Warren  and 
Miss  Emily  dined  with  us. 

AUGUST  yd.  Played  billiards  with  Col.  Perkins  as 
l  usual.  $*K  Passed  an  hour  with  Mr.  Healy  who  is 
about  taking  my  pourtrait.2  12M.  Bad  state  of  affairs  at 
Washington,  I  think  as  well  of  Tyler  as  of  the  Whigs.  IInd. 
Went  with  Mr.  Lawrence  &  Mr.  Sturgis  to  see  the  Mayor 
in  relation  to  receiving  Lord  Ashburton.  2$th.  Lord  Ash- 
burton  arrived  from  Springfield.  Went  to  the  railroad  depot 
with  Mr.  Lawrence  and  took  him  to  the  Tremont  House. 
26^.  Went  to  the  Navy  yard  &  Mr.  Cushing's  with  Lord 
Ashburton  &  several  other  gentlemen;  he  is  a  very  pleas- 

1  Boston.  2  Owned  by  Mrs.  L.  M.  Sargent,  Pride's  Crossing. 


1842]  Diary  97 

ant  man.  27^.  Went  to  Faneuil  Hall  with  the  Mayor  to  re- 
ceive Lord  Ashburton  &  dined  with  him  at  Mr.  Lawrence's. 
30^.  M  iss  Mary  Ann  Stevens,  my  niece,  has  come  to  Boston 
to  get  furniture.  I  gave  her  $  1000.00.  We  hear  from  Wash- 
ington that  the  Tariff  is  likely  to  pass  (quite  pleasing). 

SEPTEMBER  y<  "  Horatio"  is  in  from  Canton— 108 
days.  12^.  Mrs.  A.  sitting  to  Mr.  Healy  for  Portrait. 
20^.  Went  to  see  Healy's  portrait  of  Mrs.  Appleton;  have 
not  given  an  opinion,  and  heard  none  but  Mrs.  A.'s.  It  is 
a  failure  altogether  in  my  opinion.  22w<  Left  for  Phila- 
delphia with  a  large  party.  24A  Went  to  Pottsville  with 
Messrs.  N.  Appleton,  P.  T.  Jackson,  Sturgis,  Mills,  Sargent, 
Thayer,  Capt.  Cooper  &  J.  Codman — Visited  Coal  mines, 
etc.,  much  interested;  fine  Rail  Road.  30^.  Mr.  Webster 
recd  his  friends  at  Faneuil  Hall.  He  made  a  good  speech, 
crowded  Hall;  I  liked  what  he  said. 

OCTOBER  yd.  Left  for  New  York  with  Dr.  Vinton, 
Wm  F.  Otis,  George  Dexter  &  Rev.  Mr.  Watson 
to  invite  Dr.  Eastburn  to  become  Bishop.  \th.  Went  by  ap- 
pointment to  see  the  Revd  Gentn  who,  in  a  business  like 
manner,  accepted  the  call  of  the  Diocese  &  Church.  16^. 
The  last  a  most  miserable  night  to  me.  I  was  so  much 
troubled  with  pain  in  my  face  that  I  hardly  got  any  sleep, 
faint  in  the  Morning  and  sent  for  Drs.  Warren  &  Flagg; 
applied  poultices,  but  no  relief  from  the  pain.  19^.  Dr. 
Warren  came  to  see  me  and  recommended  sending  for  Dr. 
Flagg;  he  came  and  opened  my  Gum  in  a  different  place 


98  William  Appleton  [1842 

from  the  former  opening.  22*4  Passed  a  good  night.  I  can 
truly  say  I  have  reason  to  be  grateful  to  God  for  this  ill- 
ness: it  has  withdrawn  me  from  the  business  world,  and 
given  a  different  current  to  my  thoughts,  the  result  delight- 
ful. During  the  last  summer  at  Brookline  I  had  become 
less  thoughtful  as  to  my  duty  to  my  Maker  &  my  fellow 
beings.  On  return  to  the  City  falling  into  the  routine  I  left, 
I  found  myself  cold,  wanting  in  sympathy,  charity;  in  a 
word,  very  unhappy,  doubting  if  I  had  or  ever  have  had 
any  real  religion  in  me;  but  my  confinement  has  led  to 
a  new  train  of  thought.  I  now  feel  happy  &  delighted, 
strong  in  the  faith  that  Christ  died  for  us;  the  thought  of 
having  it  in  my  power  to  do  what  may  lead  others  to  be- 
lieve in  the  Cross  of  Christ  makes  me  happy  even  in  pain 
of  body.  God  Almighty  strengthen  me  in  well  doing!  I^K 
Mrs.  Augustus  Thorndike  &  Miss  T.  passed  the  evening 
with  us  &  Sir  John  Caldwell. 

NOVEMBER  14A  Had  a  conversation  with  Mr.  A.1 
Lawrence  as  to  his  son's  going  into  the  house  of 
A.  &  A.  Lawrence.  I  fear  there  is  trouble  in  the  business. 
17^.  Mr.  Lawrence  and  our  dear  daughter  Sarah  left  us. 
25th.  Prayer  Meeting  at  our  House. 

DECEMBER  Ist.  Sunday  School  teachers  at  our 
House.  8th.  St.  Paul's  Sewing  Circle  fair  at  our  House. 
ofh.  Letters  have  come  from  Frank,  they  gave  us  much 
pleasure.  \lth.  Mr.  Brimmer  Elected  Mayor.  13'*.  Passed 

1  Amos. 


1843]  Diary  99 

the  afternoon  with  Amory;  I  am  troubled  with  his  cough 
continuing.  ij*A.  Mrs.  Appleton  had  a  German  named 
Rackemann  to  exhibit  our  Piano  to  some  half  hundred 
persons.  29^.  Consecration  of  Assistant  Bishop  Eastburn; 
there  was  a  very  large  assemblage  of  Bishops,  Clergy,  and 
laity.  Bishop  De  Lancey1  preached  an  excellent  sermon. 
We  had  fourteen  besides  our  family  at  dinner;  all  went  off 
well. 

1843 

JANUARY  2nd.  The  year  commences  with  but  mod- 
erate prospects  for  business  men,  the  overtrading  of 
the  last  few  years  is  severely  felt  by  all  classes.  Ships  are 
producing  but  moderate  profits;  most  Voyages  are  ended 
with  loss;  Merchandise  of  almost  every  description  is  be- 
low what  we  have  known  it  during  my  recollection.  While 
our  Manufacturers  are  producing  a  large  Amount  of  goods 
at  unprecedentedly  low  prices,  they  are  making  no  profits, 
yet  I  think  the  time  is  not  far  distant  when  there  will  be 
a  favourable  change.  Money  is  plenty,  our  debt  (that  is 
to  be  paid  abroad)  is  cancelled,  and  Heaven  never  sent  a 
more  abundant  Harvest.  I  do  not  look  for  sudden  changes, 
but  they  will  come  during  the  year.  I  am  not  a  little  anxious 
for  the  return  of  health  of  my  dear  Son  Amory.  26^.  Our 
dear  Amory  left  us  in  the  "  Ariosto"  for  Cuba,  with  Thos 
C.  Amory,  Jr.,  and  several  other  passengers.  His  health  has 
not  been  good  for  two  or  three  months,  having  a  slight 
cough;  we  do  not  apprehend  anything  serious,  yet  I  feel 

1  Of  Western  New  York. 


ioo  William  Appleton  [1843 

it  very  important  that  he  should  change  the  climate.  27^. 
Went  to  Beverly  to  see  Mrs.  Appleton,  the  Wife  of  our 
Uncle,  Mr.  Thos  Appleton,  the  sister  of  the  late  Nathan 
Dane ;  she  was  One  hundred  &  One  years  Old  Oct.  last.  She 
has  her  faculties  generally,  but  is  quite  deaf;  she  is  quite 
erect  &  moves  with  ease. 

FEBRUARY  fK  At  Mrs.  Greene's  to  see  a  woman 
Magnetized.  13^.  Meeting  Masstts  Mills  Company; 
I  was  chosen  President,  contrary  to  my  wishes,  but  I  was 
led  to  believe  it  would  be  beneficial  to  my  Interest  & 
others'.  15^.  While  sitting  with  my  daughter  Mrs.  L.  & 
Mary  Ann  at  Mr.  Lawrence's,1  who  was  present,  Sarah  said, 
"Bishop  Griswold  is  crossing  to  this  side  of  the  Square." 
She  had  hardly  finished  the  sentence  till  she  said,  "He  has 
fallen."  I  went  immediately  to  him  on  the  sidewalk  oppo- 
site Bishop  Eastburn's;  the  lad  who  lives  with  Mr.  Law- 
rence was  endeavouring  to  raise  him;  I  assisted,  when  up  he 
walked  with  our  aid  a  few  steps;  when  he  began  to  ascend 
the  steps,  on  the  third  step  his  strength  failed  him  and  he 
for  a  moment  rested  h\s  weight  on  us  till  others  came,  and 
we  carried  him  into  Bishop  Eastburn's  study  and  laid  him 
on  the  floor.  Drs.  Jackson  &  Mason  Warren  were  with  us 
immediately,  but  within  ten  minutes  from  the  time  he  fell 
he  was  dead  and  without  a  struggle.  I  then  went  with  Dr. 
Vinton  to  inform  Mrs.  Griswold;  then  made  arrangements 
to  get  the  body  removed  to  his  House;  which  being  done, 
attended  a  very  interesting  discourse  &  prayers  at  our 

1  In  Pemberton  Square. 


1843]  Diary  101 

Chapel  with  Dr.  Vinton.  17^.  Engaged  in  getting  sub- 
scriptions for  Foreign  Missions.  I  feel  as  much  interest  as 
I  almost  ever  did  in  making  money;  may  my  zeal  last! 
10th.  We  hear  from  Amory  at  Havana;  much  improved; 
he  left  us  twenty-four  days  since,  which  is  a  short  time. 
21".  Engaged  in  looking  after  Mrs.  G.'s  affairs,  wife  of  our 
late  Bishop.  Miss  Julia  Ward  dined  with  us. 

APRIL  i*K  At  S.  A.  Appleton's,  by  request  of  Mr. 
xjL  Webster.  Had  from  him  a  Statement  of  what  was 
thought  would  be  the  policy  of  the  English  Government 
&  of  the  Southern  States,  to  do  away  with  the  protection  on 
our  domestic  industry.  \lth.  Our  dear  Frank  came  in  upon 
us  at  7  A.M.  from  Canton.  i^d.  I  am  much  troubled  by 
a  letter  from  Mr.  T.  C.  Amory  in  relation  to  the  illness  of 
Amory,  but  no  particulars;  I  fear  he  has  been  bleeding  at 
the  lungs;  a  purer  man  seldom  lived  or  died.  24A  I  recd 
a  letter  from  T.  C.  A.  stating  that  our  dear  Amory  was 
quite  ill  from  bleeding  at  the  lungs.  26^.  Recd  letter  from 
Amory,  he  thinks  he  shall  be  able  to  leave  1st  May  for 
Charleston.  I  shall  go  on  with  his  Wife  to  meet  him.  29^. 
Went  to  South  Boston  to  call  on  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Howe,  late 
Julia  Ward.  Meeting  in  relation  to  a  new  church:  more 
zeal  than  discretion. 

MAY  6th.  Cold  East  wind,  old  fashioned  Spring.  icA 
Sent  Bishop  Eastburn  a  letter  stating  I  would  give 
the  Missionary  Society  of  this  City  ten  thousand  dollars 
to  build  a  place  of  Worship  when  they  have  procured  a 


102  William  Appleton  [1843 

location.  My  reason  for  doing  this  is  that  I  believe  the 
poor  are  more  susceptible  of  religious  impressions  than 
those  in  the  higher  walks  of  life,  therefore  it  is  a  good 
charity.  Why  I  give  so  large  a  sum  is  that  without  it  I 
doubt  if  the  object  would  be  accomplished,  and  I  feel  it 
may  be  a  bond  of  Union  among  our  Clergy,  who  most 
truly  need  it.  12^.  Our  daughter,  Mrs.  Lawrence,  delivered 
of  a  female  child  at  1 1  o'clock  P.M.,  an  event  always  ex- 
citing, but  more  so  with  the  first  Child.  i8//z.  Preparing  for 
to  leave  for  Charleston.  23 rd.  Left  New  York  with  Frank 
for  Phila  in  boat.  24A  Passed  the  Morning  in  Baltimore; 
at  four  embarked  for  Norfolk.  25th.  We  left  for  Welden. 
26^.  Left  Welden  5  A.M.,  Arrived  at  Wilmington  at  2 
P.M.,  took  Boat  for  Charleston.  27^.  At  nine  o'clock  ar- 
rived at  Mrs.  Courtney's.  Amory  was  much  overcome  at 
meeting  us;  he  looked  better  than  I  feared  I  should  find 
him.  Many  friends  called  on  us;  all  very  kind.  29^.  I  find 
Amory  very  ill;  I  doubted  if  we  should  get  him  home; 
I  determined  to  endeavour  to  return  by  water. 

JUNE  7^.  Embarked  in  "Oceanus"  with  Amory,  Frank, 
T.  C.  Amory,  and  Ira.  We  got  over  the  Bar  at  2  P.M. 
\$*K  Landed  at  Falmouth  after  a  very  pleasant,  comfort- 
able passage;  Went  to  Woods  Hole  and  to  Naushon 
Island.  i6/y*.  Left  in  steamer  with  our  landlord — Mr.  Web- 
ster, a  kind  Man,  from  New  Bedford,  where  Amory  & 
Myself  remained  over  night.  Frank  &  Thos  left  for  Boston 
in  a  drenching  rain.  \~jth.  Arrived  in  Boston  at  J^past  ten, 
took  Amory  to  his  House;  not  as  strong  as  when  we  left 


1843]  Diary  103 

Charleston.  Went  with  Mary  Ann,  Frank  and  others  to 
Bunker  Hill,  being  one  of  the  Committee  of  Arrange- 
ments. I  had  a  seat  very  near  Mr.  Webster;  I  was  not  as 
much  pleased  with  his  effort  as  at  the  laying  of  the  Cor- 
ner Stone  of  the  Monument.  21^.  Mrs.  Appleton,  Amory, 
his  Wife  &  child  took  up  their  abode  at  Brookline.  22w^. 
Amory  rode  twice  this  day.  23^.  Our  dear  Amory  grows 
weaker.  Arranged  to  have  him  let  down  from  the  piazza 
to  the  Carriage;  he  is  quite  ill.  25^.  Mr.  Vinton  came  out 
to  see  us;  he  prayed  with  Amory  who  has  been  delirious 
for  most  of  the  day.  lbth.  Amory  is  not  able  to  leave  his 
bed,  dear  fellow,  he  will  not  be  long  with  us.  27^.  Amory 
quite  feeble,  mind  wandering.  This  is  the  Anniversary  of 
the  death  of  my  dear  Mother,  who  died  one  year  since; 
what  will  another  year  bring  about?  it  is  well  we  know  not. 
28^.  Amory  had  a  quiet  night  and  through  the  day  was 
quite  like  himself;  he  spoke  of  the  kindness  he  recd  from 
those  whom  he  met  in  Cuba;  he  wished  them  to  know  his 
feelings  by  sending  them  something.  29^.  At  five  o'clock 
I  went  into  dear  Amory 's  room  and  found  him  failing;  at 
six  o'clock  I  called  Dr.  Warren,  who  told  me  he  would 
not  continue  long;  at  y2  past  seven  the  Spirit  departed 
without  a  struggle.  He  spoke  to  his  Wife  &  parents,  call- 
ing them  by  their  names  shortly  before  he  died,  and  had 
apparently  a  consciousness  to  the  last.  Dr.  Vinton  came 
out,  passed  some  hours  with  us;  we  had  prayers  in  the 
room  where  his  dear  remains  laid.  My  loss  is  no  less  than 
a  most  amiable  son,  my  companion  for  some  years,  my 
friend,  my  adviser.  At  my  strong  solicitude  he  went  in  Jan- 


104  William  Appleton  [1843 

uary  to  Cuba,  &  thought  himself  much  improved  until  1st 
April,  when  after  an  excursion  to  the  Country  &  Matan- 
zas  he  was  attacked  with  bleeding  from  the  lungs.  May 
15th  he  left  Havana  in  the  Brig  "Haynes"  for  Charleston 
and  arrd  on  the  22nd.  On  the  27th  Frank  &  myself  met 
him  there.  We  were  most  fortunate  in  having  tried  a  voyage 
and  change  of  climate  that  we  got  him  home  to  those  he 
most  loved.  God  gave  him,  and  a  great  blessing  he  has 
been.  God  has  taken  him;  I  feel  I  can  truly  say,  "Thy  will 
be  done";  I  pray  I  may  continue  to  feel  so. 

JULY  Ist.  This  day  we  took  the  remains  of  our  dear 
Amory  to  St.  Paul's  Church,  where  we  found  a  large 
Congregation  of  our  friends  &  acquaintances.  The  services 
were  performed  by  Dr.  Vinton  and  the  body  placed  in 
our  family  tomb.  We  returned  to  Brookline,  Mary  (his 
wife)  with  us.  It  was  a  solemn,  trying  day,  but  I  think  we 
all  showed  as  much  fortitude  as  could  be  expected;  no 
one  could  doubt  our  feelings;  all  loved  him  most  dearly. 
3r<  I  find  I  took  cold  yesterday  &  seldom  suffered  more 
pain  than  the  last  night,  principally  in  the  side,  much 
pain  in  my  Shoulder  and  Collar  Bone  which  was  broken 
many  years  since.  The  trouble  turns  out  to  be  the  influenza 
or  Grip.  I  suffer  much  in  my  Muscles  and  Shoulder  — 
no  fever.  10^.  Mr.  Wolcott  called  while  we  were  at  Break- 
fast with  a  Newspaper  stating  the  disaster  of  the  Steamer 
"Columbia."  Went  to  Boston.  Mrs.  Lawrence  had  her  first 
daughter  Christened,  named  for  my  Wife — Mary  Ann 
Appleton.  I  feel  little  Interest  in  business. 


1843]  Diary  105 

A  UGUST  \th.  Went  to  the  City;  had  a  very  pleasant 
Jl\.  conversation  with  Mrs.  William  R.  Gray;  when  I 
communicate  with  such  a  person  I  feel  as  if  I  was  not 
worthy  of  the  name  of  Christian.  14A  Most  delightful  sea- 
son, the  Country  never  looked  better,  the  grass  as  green 
as  in  June.  28M.  Frank  left  us  for  Cambridge  to  attend  the 
Law  School. 

SEPTEMBER  8"*.  Mary  &  Mr.  Lyman  dined  with  us 
on  their  way  from  Nahant  to  Watertown.  \lth.  Mr.  & 
Mrs.  Longfellow  dined  with  us.  28M.  Went  to  Mt.  Auburn 
to  select  a  lot  with  Mary  &  Mr.  Lyman.  30^.  Removed 
to  the  City;  every  change  brings  dear  Amory  to  my  mind. 

NOVEMBER 25^.  I  am  thinking  I  should  give  some 
money  to  Religious  or  benevolent  purposes;  if  pos- 
sible to  strictly,  unite  the  two.  I  am  not  likely  to  spend 
my  income  this  year.  I  have  the  Widows'  Society  under  my 
consideration. 

DECEMBER  2nd.  Wrote  a  letter  to  the  Trustees  of 
the  Gen1  Hospital  enclosing  ten  thousand  dollars  for 
the  use  (or  the  income  of  it)  of  patients  in  the  McLean 
Asylum  whose  friends  cannot  pay  their  expenses  until  re- 
covered. I  hope  I  shall  continue  to  feel  disposed  to  part  with 
my  income;  considering  my  property  worth  one  million 
of  dollars. 

[  Copy  of  Letter  follow  s~\ 


106  William  Appleton  [1843 

Boston^  Nov.  30, 184.3 

?<?  the  trustees  Masstts  Gen.  Hospital: 

Gentmn:  Dr.  Bell  in  his  Annual  Reports  has  alluded  to 
the  premature  withdrawal  of  patients  from  the  Asylum  be- 
fore he  considered  them  entirely  recovered,  although  their 
friends  might  so  regard  them.  During  my  visits  as  a  mem- 
ber of  a  committee  of  your  board  I  have  known  very  in- 
teresting cases  where  but  with  the  dawn  of  the  best  of 
God's  blessings,  subjects  would  have  been  taken  from  the 
Asylum  when  it  was  at  least  probable  that  they  would 
have  relapsed  into  that  state  in  which  life  becomes  a  bur- 
den. The  proposed  removals  as  stated  by  their  friends  were 
with  great  regret,  and  for  no  other  reason  than  that  they 
had  not  the  means  of  longer  defraying  the  expense.  To 
meet  such  extreme  cases  money  has  been  given  by  friends 
of  the  institution.  Feeling  confident  that  much  benefit 
would  result  from  a  moderate  annual  expenditure  for  the 
relief  of  such  cases,  and  being  desirous  that  there  should 
be  such  a  fund,  the  income  of  which  should  be  thus  ex- 
pended under  the  advice  of  the  Physician  of  the  McLean 
Asylum  &  discretion  of  the  Trustees,  I  enclose  a  check  for 
ten  thousand  dollars  for  the  commencement  of  a  fund,  with 
the  belief  that  its  utility  will  lead  to  its  increase,  &  thus 
meet  the  wants  of  extreme  cases  when  patients  have  been 
under  treatment  &  there  is  strong  reason  to  believe  a  per- 
manent cure  may  be  effected,  &  the  friends  are  not  able 
to  defray  the  expense.  I  remain,  yours  very  truly, 

Wm.  Appleton 


1843]  Diary  107 

19^.  A  long  conversation  (at  his  appointment)  with  Mr. 
Webster,  of  the  political  affairs  of  this  State ;  he  thinks 
there  must  be  a  different  course  pursued  with  the  Abo- 
litionists, or  the  Whigs  would  be  in  minority;  that  the 
Independent  party,  so  called,  would  be  the  ruling  party 
of  this  State  ere  long.  25^.  We  are  now  brought  nearly 
to  the  close  of  another  year,  which  has  been  an  eventful 
&  trying  one  to  our  family.  Our  dear  Amory  one  year 
since  was  with  us!  Most  truly  can  I  say  I  think  of  him 
with  as  much  pleasure  as  I  do  of  my  living  Children.  I  love 
to  think  of  his  amiable  manner,  his  kind  checks  when 
I  spoke  suddenly;  of  his  truly  religious  feelings;  of  our 
walks,  in  business,  at  Church,  our  uniting  in  Publick  & 
private  prayer.  His  death  changed  most  of  my  business 
plans;  it  was  a  sad  event  to  part  with  such  a  son.  Mr. 
Oxnard  has  also  been  called  suddenly  from  us.  He  was 
a  very  warm  friend  of  our  dear  Amory's,  long  connected 
with  me  in  business.  We  had  the  great  satisfaction  of  going 
to  the  Communion  table  this  day  with  two  of  our  sons 
&  two  daughters;  our  eldest  son  Frank  for  the  first  time. 
The  place  our  dear  Amory  filled  is  vacant  in  my  heart; 
I  loved  him  much;  there  was  much  in  him  to  love  and 
adore;  I  look  on  his  dear  boy  with  much  pleasure;  he  and 
his  mother  are  my  pleasure  and  care.  29^.  We  have  had 
slop  in  the  streets  for  the  last  week.  31^.  Many,  very  many 
have  been  my  blessings.  I  feel  that  it  is  my  duty  to  dis- 
tribute my  income,  which  is  large,  giving  religious  objects 
the  first  thought,  &  uniting  with  others  in  promoting  the 
Arts  and  Sciences.  I  wish  to  show  to  myself  &  the  World 


108  William  Appleton  [1843 

that  a  man  may  be  zealous  in  business,  successful  in  his 
undertakings  without  the  desire  of  increasing  an  ample 
fortune;  able  to  strive  to  make  money,  to  distribute  the 
same  for  the  good  of  his  fellow  beings  beyond  his  own 
blood!  I  much  fear  I  shall  not  hold  out,  but  I  pray  it  may 
be  so.  I  feel  much  pleasure  in  what  I  have  done.  My  be- 
setting sin  is  the  desire  of  success,  not  so  much  for  the 
love  of  money,  as  for  successful  occupation.  In  other  words, 
it  is  Pride.  My  business  has  been  prosperous,  I  think  my- 
self worth  a  million  of  dollars,  independent  of  the  profit 
arising  from  our  business  of  William  Appleton  &  Co.  We 
have  three  ships  now  on  voyages  to  Canton. 

1844 

JANUARY  7«*.  Dr.  Vinton  gave  us  two  excellent  ser- 
mons; in  the  morning  "What  is  your  life*? "  He  alluded 
to  Mr.  Tuckerman  and  our  dear  Amory,  spoke  of  his  early 
Piety,  etc.  8^.  Engaged  in  arranging  our  accounts  &  mak- 
ing up  Amory's  Estate  which  proves  to  be  about  One  Hun- 
dred &  sixteen  thousand  dollars,  his  own  earnings.  Called 
at  Mr.  Lyman's;  had  a  long  pleasant  talk  in  relation  to 
Mary  &  Master  George  L.  Appleton.  10^.  Fine  sleigh- 
ing, our  young  people  rode  in  the  Open  Sleigh.  1  \th.  Our 
family  dined  together,  all  present.  Frank's  vacation;  very 
pleasant  to  see  them  all  together  with  so  much  means  of 
happiness.  12nd.  Our  dear  Mary  Ann  is  suffering  much 
from  a  fall  three  days  since  down  the  chamber  stairs;  she  is 
unable  to  retain  anything  on  her  stomach,  a  teaspoonful 


1844]  Diary  109 

of  brandy  and  water  distresses  her.  We  feel  some  anxiety 
about  her.  26M.  Mary  Ann  took  two  Tea  spoons  of  Jelly 
made  without  anything  except  Calves  feet,  salt  and  brandy. 

FEBRUARY  1  \th.  For  nearly  two  weeks  I  have  been 
confined  to  the  House  with  a  cold.  Mary  Ann  has  been 
in  her  bed  most  of  the  same  time  with  a  dyspeptic  turn 
brought  on  by  a  fall.  I  do  not  regret  the  confinement;  I  feel 
every  time  I  am  called  from  the  business  World  as  if  I  were 
better  for  it.  Frank  is  a  great  comfort  to  me,  Warren  all  I 
could  wish,  and  Mary  Ann,  pleasant,  good,  for  this  world 
or  eternity.  I  am  much  gratified  by  the  attentions  of  my 
friends  who  come  to  visit  me  as  if  they  valued  me.  Col. 
Perkins  has  been  often. 

MARCH  5^.  Mr.  Lyman  passed  an  hour  with  me, 
took  home  the  papers  relating  to  our  dear  Amory's 
estate.  He  appears  to  be  well  satisfied  with  all  that  has 
been  done;  I  fully  believe  that  is  the  fact;  they  are  a  very 
silent  family  but  kind  and  well  intentioned.  I  have  been 
most  anxious  to  have  all  turn  out  well,  and  few  transac- 
tions of  my  life  have  given  me  more  satisfaction  than  to  be 
able  to  see  my  dear  son's  wife  and  child  independent  from 
his  exertions ;  he  left  them  One  hundred  &  fifteen  thou- 
sand dollars  of  his  own  earnings.  \\th.  Rode  to  Medford 
with  Dr.  Vinton  to  see  the  new  ship  "  Hamlet"  on  her  way 
down  the  River.  19^.  Letters  from  Canton  to  24th  Nov., 
by  "Lucas."  2oM.  Meeting  at  George  M.  Dexter's  office  in 
relation  to  a  Missionary  Chapel;  the  Bishop,  Dr.  Vinton, 


no  William  Appleton  [^44 

etc.  29^.  "Hamlet"  sailed  for  New  Orleans.  opth.  Meet- 
ing to  organize  the  City  Mission.  I  find  such  sensitiveness 
among  those  who  take  part  in  this  charity,  that  I  almost 
doubt  if  it  will  be  useful,  but  He  who  directs  all  for  good 
will  work  all  to  His  Glory;  we  have  humbly  to  do  what 
we  believe  to  be  our  part  consistently. 

A  PRIL  Ist.  Our  dear  Frank  left  us  in  the  steamer  "  Cale- 
JTm.  donia"  for  Liverpool  with  Dr.  Mason  Warren.  I  am 
quite  disposed  to  have  him  do  so  as  he  requires  a  know- 
ledge of  the  World  more  than  books;  I  have  great  confi- 
dence in  his  principles.  6/A.  Accounts  from  Canton  to  1st 
Jan.  by  "Helena."  8M.  Ship  "Oxnard"  cleared;  her  first 
voyage  for  New  Orleans. 

MAY  30^.  Temperance  celebration;  some  forty  thou- 
sand persons  collected  from  this  and  other  states  to 
celebrate  the  Temperance  reform. 

JUNE  12^.  Meeting  Mass.  Episcopal  Convention.  14A 
They  got  through,  but  a  poor  display  of  Christian  prac- 
tice. 30^.  Dr.  Boone,  Missionary  to  China,  preached  at  St. 
Paul's.  I  feel  much  confidence  of  the  success  of  that  mission. 

JULY  19^.  Mr.  Greene  and  our  eldest  daughter  became 
engaged  to  join  in  Holy  Matrimony;  I  think  well  of 
him,  but  I  feel  very  little  pleasure  in  the  engagements  of 
my  daughters;  I  fear  too  much  for  them,  yet  I  know  it  is  all 
for  good.  20^.  Went  to  Boston  as  usual,  and  received  many 


1844]  Diary  111 

congratulations  on  the  engagement  of  Mary  Ann.  opth.  En- 
gaged in  preparing  the  "Loo  Choo's"  papers  &  "Tasso's." 

AUGUST  i*.  "Loo  Choo"  sailed  for  Canton;  "Tasso" 
JljL  for  the  Pacific.  $fK  Went  into  town  early  to  attend  to 
the  "Tasso,"  she  having  returned  from  coming  in  contact 
with  another  Vessel;  found  the  damage  slight. 

SEPTEMBER  \&K  Met  Mr.  Upjohn  in  relation  to 
building  the  Chapel.  1  \th.  Francis  Henry's  twenty-first 
birthday.  Mason  Warren,  Wife  &  Miss  Warren  dined  with 
us.  18^.  Great  preparations  for  the  Political  convention 
which  takes  place  tomorrow.  19^.  Went  early  to  the  City, 
passed  the  day  and  night.  The  show  was  handsome  with 
much  spirit,  yet  I  think  we  shall  have  Polk  for  President; 
I  fear  so.  24^.  Met  the  Selectmen  of  Roxbury  in  relation 
to  changing  the  Road  to  Mr.  Lowell's.  30^.  Engaged  in 
making  arrangements  to  go  to  Phild  as  a  delegate  to  the 
Gen1  Convention. 

OCTOBER  1*.  Left  Boston  with  Mary  Ann,  Mr. 
Greene  &  Miss  Warren.  We  had  regular  sittings  dur- 
ing the  mornings  until  three  o'clock,  for  the  first  &  second 
weeks,  after  which  we  met  in  the  evenings  during  the  sit- 
ting of  the  Convention.  Mrs.  Appleton  &  William  Burn- 
ham  joined  us,  Dr.  Vinton  likewise  made  one  of  our  party. 
We  were  very  pleasantly  situated  and  passed  our  time 
pleasantly.  We  returned  to  Boston  on  the  23rd;  found 
all  well.  25th.  Mr.  Upjohn  came  to  conclude  contract  for 


112  William  Appleton  [1844 

Chapel.  Much  to  our  annoyance  the  contractors  have  be- 
come Millerites;  left  their  business,  given  up  all  work. 

NOVEMBER  \th.  We  are  quite  engaged  in  making 
arrangements  for  Mary  Ann's  Wedding.  $th.  The 
birthday  of  our  third  daughter,  and  much  more  interest- 
ing as  the  Marriage  day  of  our  eldest  daughter,  which  was 
solemnized  at  St.  Paul's  Church  by  Dr.  Vinton  at  yi  past 
four  o'clock,  with  the  church  well  filled  with  spectators, 
among  them  many  of  our  friends.  We  returned  to  our 
House,  dined;  a  family  party  with  some  in  addition  num- 
bering thirty-six.  I  feel  that  I  am  parting  with  a  daughter 
of  great  piety  and  good  sense,  and  quite  important  as  an 
example  to  her  younger  sisters.  She  has  always  been  obe- 
dient to  my  wishes,  kind  to  all  about  her,  and  truly  de- 
voted to  the  cause  of  Religion,  I  shall  feel  her  absence  at 
our  morning  and  evening  exercises;  she  has  taken  Amory's 
place  with  me  in  some  respects.  May  God  bless  &  support 
her  under  all  trials.  jt/l.  Warren  left  us  for  Schenectady; 
he  has  made  himself  very  dear  to  me  by  his  good  conduct 
and  very  kind  disposition.  We  are  yet  much  excited  as  to 
the  result  of  the  Election.  8^.  All  our  hopes  for  electing 
Mr.  Clay  have  vanished  by  the  returns  from  New  York. 
I  went  this  morning  with  my  son  Frank  &  Dr.  Vinton  to 
Mount  Auburn  where  we  committed  to  the  tomb,  being 
taken  from  St.  Paul's,  the  remains  of  her  who  gave  me 
birth,  my  dear  Son  Amory,  and  that  of  our  infant  child  Ed- 
ward. It  was  like  again  parting  with  them.  I  felt  it  much, 
very  much. 


1845]  Diary  113 

DECEMBER  \2th.  There  was  a  northeast  storm  with 
( snow  last  night.  A  ship  from  Calcutta  was  totally  lost 
offour  light  House  on  Point  Allerton.  26^.  Not  quite  well, 
I  fancy  from  taking  Champagne  yesterday.  31".  Warren, 
our  second  son,  has  become  engaged  to  marry  Miss  War- 
ren, one  of  the  best  women  within  my  knowledge ;  the 
only  regret  is  his  forming  an  engagement  so  soon. 


1845 

JANUARY  vf.  The  year  commences  with  a  bright  day, 
very  mild.  Went  in  the  afternoon  with  Col.  Perkins  to 
Mr.  Alger's  foundry;  we  saw  there  cast  a  cannon  said  to 
weigh  twenty-five  Tons.  tyh.  Anniversary  of  our  Wedding 
day,  thirty  years  since.  18^.  More  ice  than  I  ever  saw  on 
our  sidewalks ;  the  trees  look  beautifully.  20^.  Dr.  Putnam 
of  Roxbury  &  Mr.  N.  Bowditch  dined  with  us.  We  went 
with  Dr.  Potter  to  hear  Mr.  Webster  before  the  Rail  Road 
Committee  of  the  Legislature. 

MARCH  4M.  The  conversation  is  of  the  Annexation 
of  Texas.  My  feeling  is  within  ten  years  we  shall 
think  it  a  blessing  instead  of  a  curse.  6t/l.  Dined  with  Mrs. 
Amory,  my  Wife's  birthday;  her  mother  is  bright  but  not 
long  for  this  world.  24^.  Laying  the  Corner  Stone  of  St. 
Stephen's  Chapel  by  Bishop  Eastburn.  Large  assemblage 
of  persons,  very  interesting.  Meeting  Proprietors  St.  Paul's 
Church;  very  Harmonious. 


ii4  William  Appleton  [^45 

A  PRIL  4^.  We  have  accounts  by  "Natches"  from  Can- 
il  ton,  78  days  passage.  1  \th.  Family  at  dinner  includ- 
ing Miss  Warren.  19^.  Meeting  in  relation  to  the  Sufferers 
in  Pittsburg. 

MAY  $th.  Left  for  Schenectady.  6^.  Found  a  wel- 
come reception;  Warren  pleasantly  situated.  28^. 
Election  Day,  so  called;  there  is  a  general  turnout  of 
Militia. 

JULY  \th.  Our  Servants  and  children  went  to  Boston 
to  see  the  fireworks.  §*K  This  morning  we  were  in- 
formed by  note  from  Mr.  Lawrence  that  Sarah  has  a  sec- 
ond daughter;  we  are  all  quite  happy.  A  word  as  to  my 
health.  When  the  warm  weather  came  I  found  myself 
troubled  with  flatulence  which  increased  till  I  found  I  must 
make  a  change.  Dr.  Warren  said  he  believed  if  I  would 
confine  myself  to  Bread,  meat  &  Water  I  should  correct 
the  difficulty.  I  commenced  that  night,  took  y2  tumbler  of 
water  (without  ice),  a  piece  of  coarse  bread  made  of  the 
whole  of  wheat  for  my  supper.  In  the  morning  I  took  cold 
water,  beefsteak  &  coarse  bread  for  breakfast;  at  dinner 
the  same  &  have  continued  that  system  of  diet,  only  chang- 
ing occasionally  for  mutton  at  dinner,  to  this  time,  and  I 
feel  as  well  as  I  did  six  months  since.  9^.  Funeral  proces- 
sion in  honour  of  General  Jackson. 


1845]  Diai7  115 

A  UGUST  \th.  Sat  to  Mr.  Cheney1  in  the  morning. 
jlV  18^.  Went  to  Lowell  with  Mr.  Pakenham,  Her  Maj- 
esty's Minister  to  this  Country,  Mr.  Mclvers,  Col.  Perkins 
and  Mr.  R.  C.  Winthrop;a  very  pleasant  day  &  time  we 
had.  19^.  We  are  considerably  disturbed  by  the  apprehen- 
sion of  War  with  Mexico.  Played  Billiards  with  Col.  Per- 
kins. Still  troubled  with  dispepsy.  26^.  Went  with  Mr. 
Otis  to  see  Mr.  Forbes'  Ship  "Massachusetts"  having  a 
steam  propeller  to  aid  in  making  her  passage;  I  doubt  the 
success  of  the  enterprise. 

SEPTEMBER  16^.  Rec<*  a  letter  saying  my  niece, 
Mrs.  Stowell,  was  quite  ill.  17^.  Started  6  o'clock  for 
Fitzwilliam;  arrived  at  3  P.M.;  found  My  Niece  quite 
low,  I  think  it  possible  she  may  recover.  i8/7/.  Returned  to 
Boston  to  dine. 

OCTOBER  g//l.  Our  son  J.  Warren  married  to  Emily 
Warren;  we  are  fully  satisfied  with  his  choice;  she  is 
a  fine  woman  with  excellent  principles  and  good  disposi- 
tion. I  think  his  opportunities  for  happiness  are  as  good  as 
almost  any  young  Man;  his  education  has  been  neglected, 
but  he  appears  to  be  disposed  to  correct  the  defect.  His 
principles  we  believe  to  be  good;  his  appearance  and  man- 
ners quite  in  his  favour;  they  will  have  the  good  wishes  and 
Prayers  of  many.  13^.  Went  to  Waltham  with  Mrs.  Apple- 
ton  and  found  Mrs.  Greene  had  been  delivered  of  a  Son  at 

1  Owned  by  W.  A.  Lawrence,  hanging  at  122  Commonwealth  Avenue. 


n6  William  Appleton  [^45 

5  o'clock  P.M.;  we  have  much  to  be  grateful  for.  \bth. 
Warren  &  wife  left  in  Ship  "Burgundy"  for  Havre  in  good 
spirits.  I  felt  much  in  parting  with  them,  yet  I  am  satisfied 
it  is  right  they  should  go.  19^.  Put  in  the  Box  at  church 
five  Hundred  dollars  for  Domestic  Missions.  May  God 
bless  the  means  and  give  a  better  heart  to  the  contribu- 
tors. 26^.  I  fear  I  part  with  money  more  because  I  feel  it  a 
duty  than  from  a  higher  motive  !  I  pray  sincerely  for  bet- 
ter and  more  elevated  motives.  31^.  Col.  Everest  of  Her 
Majesty's  Artillery  at  dinner;  he  is  rough,  but  an  intelli- 
gent man. 

NOVEMBER  14A  We  had  a  party  at  dinner,  Judge 
Woodbury,  Mr.  Webster,  Mr.  Everett,  Mr.  Win- 
throp,  Mr.  N.  Appleton,  Mr.  A.  Lawrence,  Judge  Shaw, 
Mr.  Sturgis,  F.  C.  Gray  and  Mr.  Sears;  very  pleasant.  \bth. 
This  day  brings  to  an  end  my  fifty-eighth  year,  I  cannot 
realize  that  I  am  this  old.  I  do  not  feel  that  I  am  an  old 
man,  yet  I  have  much  to  admonish  me,  in  the  use  of 
Glasses,  loss  of  memory,  and  even  in  my  limbs  when  rap- 
idly going  up  Stairs.  I  have  had  very  imperfect  health  yet 
I  have  generally  been  able  to  direct  and  attend  to  business. 
I  feel  the  responsibility  I  have  on  me  in  taking  a  stand  as 
a  Christian ;  that  I  am  looked  on  by  some  of  my  friends, 
doubting  whether  I  shall  adhere  to  my  professions.  I  find 
nothing  like  intrusion,  but  something  like  doubting  in 
their  minds  as  to  the  reality  of  the  change.  Recd  presents 
from  my  Grandsons:  a  locket  with  his  Hair  from  the  one, 

6  from  Mr.  George  "The  Sermon  on  the  Mount"  beauti- 


1845]  Diary  117 

fully  got  up.  Fine  day.  27^,  thanksgiving  Day.  Most  Vio- 
lent rain.  Went  to  Trinity  Church,  where  we  solemnly 
dedicated  our  Grandson,  J.  S.  Copley,  to  Almighty  God. 
My  daughter,  Mrs.  Lawrence,  and  myself  stood  as  spon- 


sors. 


DECEMBER  2»<  Attended  the  funeral  of  Mrs.  Ack- 
erman,  who  has  suffered  much  the  last  year.  She  was 
in  our  family  during  the  births  of  most  of  our  Children; 
an  Excellent  IVoman.  3r<  Cold, unpleasant  day;  went  to  see 
Mrs.  Ackerman's  mother,  out  most  of  the  morning.  Getting 
over  my  cold.  \th.  President's  Message  is  published  this 
morning;  I  do  not  feel  that  we  are  to  get  into  a  War  in 
relation  to  Oregon.  I  believe  they  will  change  the  Tariff 
materially,  but  not  eventually  to  injure  the  Interests  of 
the  Cotton  manufacturers.  \oth.  Attended  the  opening  of 
the  House  of  Refuge.  I  have  had  &  have  now  doubts  as 
to  the  success  of  the  establishment,  but  finding  for  years 
there  were  persons  who  fully  believed  in  the  utility  of  the 
place,  more  than  two  years  ago  I  began  a  subscription;  it 
was  not  found  to  meet  the  patronage  of  the  publick,  but 
eventually  they  got  fifteen  thousand  dollars.  I  then  ex- 
tended my  subscription  to  five  thousand  dollars.  The  pres- 
ent building  has  been  erected  by  my  movement,  but  I  can- 
not say  I  have  acted  from  any  high  motives,  but  should 
it  please  God  to  bless  the  Institution  and  use  me  as  an  in- 
strument, the  honour  be  to  Him,  and  to  Him  alone.  I  felt 
humbled  at  seeing  so  much  interest  shown  by  others  this 
morning  and  finding  myself  so  little  affected.  Oh,  may  my 


n8  William  Appleton  [1845 

life  that  remains  be  such  as  to  deserve  the  commendation 
which  I  undeservedly  have  shown  me.  12th.  Meetings, 
Nashua,  Jackson  &  Salmon  Falls  Companies;  large  Profits 
and  good  dividends.  19^.  The  Oregon  Question  looks  bad 
on  both  sides,  but  will  be  settled  without  War.  31^.  This 
brings  to  a  close  another  year.  One  son  married  with  our 
entire  approbation,  another  engaged  to  a  lovely  woman.1 

1846 

THIS  commences  a  new  year,  the  events  of  which  are 
wisely  out  of  our  sight.  In  the  business  world  there 
is  much  agitation  as  to  War  with  England;  I  do  not  much 
fear  it. 

JANUARY  6^.  Engaged  in  getting  up  50^  for  Mr. 
Webster.  Miss  Harriet  had  a  party  of  young  people 
to  the  extent  of  sixty  or  eighty;  it  was  said  to  go  off  well 
—  a  poor  business;  I  do  not  like  it.  28^.  Annual  Meeting 
Masstts  Gen1  Hospital  Corporation.2 

FEBRUARY  ydm  We  hear  of  the  loss  of  our  Ship 
"Hamlet";  I  find  myself  very  much  discomposed  by 
the  loss  of  property ;  I  have  less  controul  over  my  feelings 
than  I  should  have  supposed  until  tried.  ioM.  Meeting  at 
the  Bishop's  in  relation  to  a  Theological  Seminary;  I  had 
a  long  talk  with  Mr.  Mason  in  relation  to  it.  14^.  Frank, 
Harriet,  with  some  twenty  friends  went  to  Mr.  Greene's, 

lMiss  Georgiana  Silsbee.  2  He  was  President  of  the  Board  of  Trustees. 


1846]  Diary  119 

Waltham,  in  the  evening;  fine  sleighing.    lj*K  Master 
Charles  had  a  sleighing  party. 

MARCH  12"*.  Sale  of  Phillips  Estate  in  this  Street. 
Lots  on  Beacon  St.,  180  feet  depth,  sold  for  four  dol- 
lars the  square  foot.  30^.  Fine  bright  day.  Went  to  Salem 
to  attend  the  Wedding  of  our  now  eldest  Son,  Frank ;  we 
are  quite  satisfied  with  the  connection;  we  think  his  choice 
a  judicious  one;  a  Woman  of  good  temper,  kind  in  her 
feelings,  and  a  fair  share  of  understanding;  their  prospects 
are  as  good  as  almost  any.  May  He  who  directs  all  give 
them  Grace  to  follow  that  course  that  will  give  Peace  in 
Time,  &  Happiness  in  Eternity.  31^.  Passed  the  night  at 
Mr.  N.  Silsbee,  Jr.'s. 

APRIL  12^,  Easter  Sunday.  On  my  knees  did  I  sup- 
jl\.  plicate  my  God  this  morning  that  I  might  through 
His  grace  be  enabled  to  give  my  mind  to  His  service  this 
day.  20^.  We  have  much  pleasure  in  the  arrival  of  Warren 
&  his  wife  in  the  "Caledonia"  from  Liverpool.  2iJ/.  Went 
to  Brookline  with  Col.  Tod,  ambassador  to  St.  Petersburg. 

MAY  lX  Mrs.  Appleton  gave  a  party  for  Frank,  War- 
ren and  their  Wives;  about  sixty  persons;  called 
pleasant;  a  Band  of  musick,  but  there  was  very  little  plea- 
sure to  me,  or,  as  I  could  learn,  to  any  one  else — all  tired. 
yd.  "Cambria"  Ashore  on  Cape  Cod.  12^.  Engaged  in 
making  Preparation  for  our  contemplated  journey  to  the 
South.  13^.  Left  for  New  York,  via  Norwich.  15^.  Arrivd 


120  William  Appleton  [1846 

at  Philadelphia  to  dine.  16^.  Arrived  at  Washington  at 
seven  o'clock;  found  ourselves  well  located.  18^.  Went 
with  Mrs.  Webster  &  our  Ladies  to  the  Capitol,  House 
and  Senate;  rode  to  Navy  Yard,  called  on  Gen1  Hender- 
son. 19^.  At  the  President's  in  the  evening;  Poor  concern. 
10th.  Party  at  Madam  Calderon's,  formerly  Miss  Inglis; 
quite  fashionable.  1VK  Went  to  the  Races,  dined  at  Mr. 
Webster's;  small  party.  IInd.  Party  at  Mrs.  Grinnell's, 
quite  pleasant,  many  of  our  acquaintances  there.  23^. 
Went  down  the  River  in  Steamer  "Masstts";  dined  with 
Mr.  Pakenham.  25th.  Left  Washington  at  6  A.M.  for  Phik 
26^.  We  have  had  warm  summer  weather,  strawberries 
in  abundance  for  ten  days  past;  dined  at  Bishop  Potter's. 
30^.  Arrived  in  Boston,  found  all  well.  31^.  Took  Capt. 
Eliot  and  Lady  to  Church.  Our  son  Frank  confirmed  with 
10  others. 

JUNE  3r<  Went  to  Cambridge  to  see  Mr.  Greenleaf  in 
relation  to  Seminary.  9^.  All  dined  at  Brookline;  rather 
in  confusion,  but  all  will  come  right.  \lth.  The  Conven- 
tion closed  its  session  with  my  proposition  for  a  Divinity 
School;  it  was  well  received;  but  whether  it  will  be  car- 
ried into  effect  is  doubtful  in  my  mind.  I  think  much 
good  would  be  derived  by  the  Institution,  but  God  will 
devise  all  for  good. 

JULY  Ist.  Engaged  most  of  the  morning  on  business 
of  Charles  River  Bridge.  28^.  Much  doubt  &  excite- 
ment as  to  the  passing  of  the  Tariff  bill  of  Mr.  McKay. 


1846]  Diary  121 

30^.  We  have  accounts  of  the  passage  of  the  tariff;  I 
think  it  will  do  less  mischief  than  is  expected;  Carpets  & 
Muslin-de-Laines  will  be  partially  given  up  and  some 
fine,  plain  and  printed  cottons  will  be  less  made  in  this 
Country. 

SEPTEMBER  26'*.  Went  to  meet  Mr.  Upjohn  at 
the  Purchase  Street  Chapel.  I  find  very  little  interest 
others  take  in  this  affair;  I  fear  I  have  less  zeal  than  when 
I  commenced  it,  yet,  if  I  am  not  made  better  by  it,  others 
may  be. 

OCTOBER  5"*.  St.  Stephen's  Chapel  Consecrated. 
The  services  were  very  appropriate ;  House  quite  full. 
It  was  an  interesting  day  to  me,  the  finishing  of  a  work 
which  had  been  a  long  time  in  progress.  I  feel  that  I  have 
made  an  additional  pledge  to  live  more  nearly  to  the  re- 
ligion I  profess.  \$th.  Our  Ship  "Cygnet"  sailed  for  Bata- 
via.  23^.  Breakfasted  with  Mr.  F.  C.  Gray  and  a  party  of 
gentlemen. 

NOVEMBER  fK  Attended  the  funeral  of  my  friend, 
D.  L.  Pickman,  at  Salem;  a  man  of  strong  mind  and 
high  honour;  a  Merchant  of  the  first  class — much  esteemed. 
\tth.  I  am  this  day  sixty  years  old;  little  have  I  done  in  pre- 
paration for  Eternity;  at  times  I  think  myself  stationary  in 
religious  character.  I  trust  I  feel  more  dependence  on  my 
M  aker.  I  verily  belie  ve  I  ought  to  prevent  my  children  going 
as  much  in  the  World  as  they  do,  but  sometimes  I  think  it 


122  William  Appleton  [1846 

may  be  because  I  have  lost  a  desire  to  do  that,  I  feel  they 
should  not,  and  again  that  by  indulgence  I  may  retain  their 
confidence.  Mrs.  Appleton  quite  ill  with  a  bilious  turn. 
17^.  Mrs.  Appleton  in  her  chamber  until  8  P.M.,  when  she 
dressed  herself  to  receive  her  Company  which  consisted  of 
some  two  Hundred.  The  number  invited  was  nearly  eight 
hundred;  many  refused  on  account  of  the  season  for  parties 
not  having  commenced.  It  was  said  to  be  very  pleasant; 
all  went  off  well.  They  began  to  assemble  at  y2  past  nine 
&  retired  at  y2  past  One  O'clock.  i8M.  Mrs.  Appleton  in 
her  room,  but  better;  all  tired  out  from  late  Hours. 

DECEMBER  8^.  Attended  the  lecture  of  Mr.  Agassiz 
with  Bishop  Potter,  who  has  come  to  pass  some  weeks 
with  us.1  10^.  Warren  Club  at  my  house,  about  thirty-five 
persons  present;  very  pleasant.  IInd.  Went  to  Plymouth, 
dined  with  a  party  of  about  ninety  Gentmn  from  this  city; 
Mr.  Webster  presided;  an  interesting  day.  It  carries  us 
back  to  the  landing  of  the  Colony  from  which  the  best 
results  of  the  settlement  of  the  New  World  are  exhibited. 
25^.  Warren  and  wife  are  blessed  with  a  fine  daughter;  now 
located,2  as  are  all  our  children,  quite  near  us.  30^.  Mrs. 
Sears  gave  a  large  Ball.  Clarkson  Potter  passed  the  night 
with  us.  31^.  Went  to  Lowell  with  Mr.  J.  A.  Lowell  & 
Mr.  Sami  Cabot  on  business  of  uniting  Masstts  &  Prescott 
Companies.  The  past  year  our  business  has  been  success- 
ful; retaining  my  capital  entire,  I  have  Built  or  finished  a 
Chapel,  which,  with  the  endowment  I  shall  add  will  amount 

1  To  deliver  a  course  of  lectures.  3  At  76  Beacon  Street. 


1847]  Diary  123 

to  more  than  twenty-six  thousand  dollars.  Placed  twenty- 
five  thousand  dollars  as  a  fund,  if  accepted,  to  commence 
a  Theological  Seminary.  Made  some  provisions  for  my  sis- 
ters, and  distributed  freely  with  others  of  my  income,  which 
has  been  more  than  One  Hundred  Thousand  dollars. 


1847 

JANUARY  vf.  We  had  at  dinner  all  our  Children  and 
as  many  of  our  Grand  Children  as  were  old  enough  to 
sit  at  table.  I  presented  my  children,  who  are  of  age,  with 
five  thousand  dollars  of  stock,  requesting  them  to  use  the 
income  for  charitable  purposes,  telling  them  that  I  should 
give  to  the  Brothers  and  sisters,  including  Geo.  L.  Appleton, 
when  they  arrived  at  the  age  of  twenty-one  years,  a  like 
sum,  should  I  live  so  long,  and  if  otherwise  I  should  pro- 
vide that  it  be  furnished  them.  Small  party  at  our  House 
at  evening.  14A  Bishop  Potter  gave  his  last  lecture  for  the 
season.  With  much  regret  do  we  part  with  him.  I  do  not 
know  the  other  gentleman  we  should  willingly  admit  as  one 
of  our  family;  he  is  all  we  could  desire  as  a  companion  and 
his  example  is  such  as  we  should  strive  to  follow.  30^.  Mrs. 
Appleton  and  children  went  to  see  the  exhibition  of  the 
children  dancers. 

FEBRUARY  4A  Pleasant  party  at  Col.  Perkins';  pri- 
vate theatricals  by  the  family.  13^.  Mrs.  A.  &  Mrs. 
Burnham  with  the  children  went  to  see  the  dancing  chil- 
dren from  Italy.  15^.  Meeting  at  Mr.  Mills'  in  relation  to 


124  William  Appleton  [1847 

the  Irish  &  Scotch  famine.  i8M.  Meeting  at  Faneuil  Hall, 
very  fully  attended,  for  the  relief  of  the  sufferers  in  Ireland. 
10th.  Steamer  arrivd  from  Liverpool;  anxiously  looked  for. 
We  find  less  news  than  we  expected:  there  will  be  much 
distress  before  July  among  the  lower  classes,  and  what  is 
to  be  a  permanent  remedy  is  difficult  to  imagine. 

MARCH  2nd,  Fine  sleighing,  all  in  motion.  7^.  Com- 
munion at  Church;  remained  at  home  on  account 
of  cold  in  the  afternoon.  Dr.  Warren  recommended  Bath, 
mustard  poultices,  &c.  I  remained  in  the  House  without 
much  change  until  Friday  night  when  I  was  attacked  with 
a  pain  while  in  bed,  very  severe  in  my  left  side ;  we  soon 
determined  to  call  the  servants  and  send  for  Dr.  Mason 
Warren.  It  turned  out  to  be  a  regular  attack  of  pleurisy, 
but  by  blisters,  etc.,  very  little  fever  continued  after  the  pain 
subsided.  The  following  Wednesday  Mrs.  Appleton's  good 
Mother  had  another  attack  of  apoplexy,  and  died  Wednes- 
day evening,  24th,  without  a  struggle.  She  was  entombed 
on  Saturday,  27th.  I  rode  to  the  House  to  take  a  last  look  on 
her  whom  I  much  loved  and  respected,  but  I  was  not  suffi- 
ciently well  to  attend  the  services  at  Trinity.  Mrs.  Amory, 
the  only  daughter  of  the  late  Gov.  Sullivan,  died  at  the  Age 
of  seventy-four.  A  Lady  of  much  energy,  of  character,  com- 
manding in  her  appearance,  of  a  strong  mind,  and  I  believe 
from  early  life  governed  by  truly  Christian  principles.  My 
intercourse  with  her  from  the  death  of  Mr.  Amory,  for  nearly 
twenty  years,  was  very  intimate;  we  always  had  a  good 
understanding;  she  expected  frankness  and  received  the 


1847]  Diary  125 

truth,  whether  pleasant  or  otherwise,  with  courtesy.  She 
often  spoke  with  gratitude  of  my  services  to  her  &  her  fam- 
ily, and  much  overrated  my  kindness  of  heart.  She  left  with 
her  Will  a  most  affectionate  letter  for  me,  written  some 
years  since,  to  be  delivered  with  one  from  Mr.  Wm.  Sulli- 
van,1 both  of  which  I  shall  continue  to  value  much,  as  evi- 
dence of  their  good  opinion. 

APRIL  1  oth.  Accounts  of  Capture  of  Vera  Cruz  and  death 
-ZjL  of  Capt.  Vinton.  2  Ist.  Was  very  much  provoked  with 
Robert,  my  servant,  and  spoke  very  roughly  to  him.  I  took 
occasion  to  say  to  him  that  I  made  a  mistake  in  thus  speak- 
ing, and  I  felt  better  satisfied  with  myself  for  so  doing. 


M 


AY  16^.  Captain  Forbes  returned  from  the  Mission 
of  Mercy  to  Ireland;  he  was  absent  seven  weeks. 


JUNE  2nd.  Our  family  removed  to  Brookline;  apple 
trees  in  full  bloom.  \oth.  Passed  the  morning  at  the 
Convention  of  our  Diocese;  much  pleased  with  Mr.  Ed- 
son's  report  on  Church  extension;  the  business  conducted 
with  more  regularity  than  usual.  \2th.  Harriet  had  some 
of  her  friends  at  tea  &  in  the  evening,  consisting  of  the 
Misses  Lyman,  Prescott,  Peabody,  Gray,  etc.  \"]th.  Steamer 
arrived.  Brought  the  word  of  the  total  loss  of  the  "  Mary 
Ellen."  20fd.  Party  of  Ladies,  Genmn  &  Children  at  Mr. 
Greene's,  Waltham,  to  meet  Tom  Thumb.  Very  pleasant, 
delightful  afternoon. 2 8M.  Frank  came  to  Brookline;  I  can- 

1  Her  brother. 


126  William  Appleton  [^47 

not  understand  his  apparent  absence  of  mind,  I  trust  there 
is  nothing  essentially  wrong.  This  is  a  day  of  meditation 
with  me,  the  Anniversary  of  the  death  of  my  dear  Amory, 
never  to  be  forgotten,  yet  I  think  of  him  with  more  plea- 
sure than  I  would  or  could  wish  to  express.  29^.  The  "  Hors- 
burgh"  sailed  for  Canton,  I  doubt  if  she  will  make  any 
money.  opth.  Pres*  Polk  arrivd  in  Boston;  cold  Northeast 
wind  with  rain. 

JULY  \oth.  Meeting  of  directors  of  Salmon  Falls  Com- 
pany as  to  building  a  new  mill ;  I  feel  we  shall  regret 
so  doing  within  one  year.  13^.  Mrs.  Appleton  and  my- 
self left  Brookline  for  Saratoga  (via  Boston).  At  Newton, 
Madam  Greene  and  Mrs.  Charles  Amory  joined  us.  We  ar- 
rived at  Springfield  in  a  Thunder  squall.  Col.  Perkins  and 
Party  arrived  in  the  evening.  14A  We  left  at  ^past  eight; 
we  found  in  the  cars  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Jackson  in  addition  to 
our  party  of  yesterday,  consisting  of  Mr.  Jos.  Tilden,  Mrs. 
Torrey,  her  son  &  wife.  We  found  it  pleasant  but  quite 
cool  crossing  the  mountains;  dined  at  Troy  &  arrived  at 
Saratoga  at  six  o'clock.  We  found  excellent  rooms  reserved 
for  us,  the  House  well  filled  with  company.  I  find  several 
acquaintances,  among  them  Comm.  Morris,  Dr.  Dun- 
can, Mr.  H.  Cabot,  Mr.  Wm.  Boott.  16^.  The  time  passes 
pleasantly,  but  with  much  sameness:  drink  Water,  eat 
Breakfast,  lounge,  talk,  dine,  hear  the  Band  play,  take  tea, 
go  to  the  drawing  room  to  see  the  young  people  dance  & 
end  the  day.  Thus  the  days  passed  until  Friday,  23rd,  when 
we  left;  dined  at  Albany  and  slept  at  Springfield;  the  fol- 


1847]  Diary  127 

lowing  morning  took  the  Cars;  separated  from  our  trav- 
elling companions  at  Newton,  got  home  at  two  O'clock. 
Frank  dined  with  us.  27^.  Charles'  birthday. 

AUGUST  2«<  Went  with  Miss  Hetty  &  Miss  Eliot 
jLjL  to  Lynn,  then  to  Nahant.  Frank  &  family  removed 
there  for  a  season,  I  trust  he  may  be  benefited;  his  absence 
of  mind  is  sorely  distressing  and  to  me  alarming.  8^.  I  am 
thinking  of  providing  funds  to  build  a  Church  at  Shanghai. 

SEPTEMBER  3^.  Went  to  Brookfield,  a  pleasant 
visit  to  the  place  of  my  nativity;  much  pleased  with 
my  reception  by  Mr.  Snell;  dined  with  him,  saw  Mr.  Gil- 
bert. ofh.  Went  to  Lynn  &  Salem,  dined  with  Mr.  Silsbee; 
found  Georgiana  and  Master  Frank  well.  13^.  Much  af- 
fected by  the  death  of  my  friend  P.  T.  Jackson,  one  of  the 
most  influential  men  in  our  community. 

NOVEMBER.  i".  Throatquite  inflamed, breast  sore; 
in  the  House.  Read  in  the  life  of  Mr.  Simeon;  it  is 
refreshing  to  find  good  &  eminent  men  doubting  &  almost 
desponding  at  the  wickedness  of  their  hearts.  \VK  F.  H. 
Appleton,  Jr.,  Christened  with  seven  other  children;  the 
God  Parents  His  Father,  Mother  and  myself.  A  pleasant 
party  at  Frank's  in  the  evening.  16^.  I  have  often  thought 
to  myself,  Why  am  I  left  and  others  strong  &  young  called 
to  their  account?  At  times  I  have  been  led  to  the  feeling 
it  was  that  I  might  protect  my  now  departed  Mother,  my 
sisters,  and  to  be  useful  to  others  with  whom  I  was  con- 


n8  William  Appleton  [^47 

nected;  I  trust  my  life  has  been  extended  that  I  might 
become  more  fitted  for  His  Service  on  earth  &  prepared 
for  another  existence.  10th.  Mr.  G.  sent  for  me  to  come  and 
see  him;  he  informed  me  that  his  brother  was  embarrassed. 
I  think  it  is  a  very  bad  business,  that  Mr.  G.  will  lose  half 
of  his  property.  I  fear  if  I  were  to  lose  my  property  I 
should  not  behave  like  a  man  or  a  Christian.  23^.  I  feel 
much  for  Mr.  G.;  much  engaged  in  his  affairs  and  I  trust 
I  shall  get  him  out  with  15022  &  House.  Went  to  see 
Laura  Bridgman.  opth.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Webster,  Mr.  &  Mrs. 
Tucker,  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Coolidge,  Mr.  &  Mrs.  F.  C.  Lowell, 
Mr.  &  Mrs.  Greene,  Mrs.  Rotch,  Mrs.  A.  A.  Lawrence, 
Mr.  N.  Appleton,  Mr.  C.  G.  Loring,  Mr.  F.  C.  Gray,  Mr. 
Paige  and  Dr.  Scoresby  dined  with  us;  pleasant  Party. 

DECEMBER  1".  Went  with  Dr.  Scoresby  to  hear  Mr. 
Sturgis  lecture  on  the  Indians  of  North  America. 
25^,  Christmas.  My  friend,  Honble  Sam1  Hubbard,  died 
the  last  night;  he  was  among  my  early  acquaintances  in 
Boston;  he  was  one  of  our  Groomsmen. 

1848 

JANUARY  i".  Most  of  our  family  came  to  dine  & 
some  young  persons  at  Evening.  In  commencing  a 
new  year  we  look  back  on  the  past.  I  have  had  less  busi- 
ness, less  perplexities,  consequently  less  trials  of  my  tem- 
per; my  charities  have  not  been  large.  My  income  much 
less  than  for  some  years,  yet  I  could  well  spare  more  but 


1848]  Diary  129 

the  objects  that  come  in  my  way  have  not  been  such  as 
to  produce  the  strongest  Interest.  I  have  sent  the  means 
to  build  a  Church  in  China,1  five  thousand  dollars.  I  dis- 
tributed five  Hundred  Copies  of  the  memoir  or  life  of  Mr. 
Simeon,  an  eminent  Divine  of  Cambridge,  England.  It  is 
my  intention  to  close  my  commercial  affairs  as  our  ships 
arrive.  It  might  be  for  my  good  to  have  the  employment 
and  I  might  be  useful  to  others;  on  the  other  hand,  I  may 
be  in  the  way  of  others  and  should  I  be  called  suddenly 
it  would  leave  my  family  many  perplexities.  \2th.  Mis- 
sionary sermon  at  St.  Paul's  Church — not  well  attended. 
It  is  very  strange  there  should  be  so  little  interest  in  Mis- 
sions. 17^.  Went  to  see  Dr.  Warren  &  Dr.  Bell  as  to  Frank. 
They  with  Mason  determined  that  no  time  should  be  lost 
in  sending  him  to  the  Hospital;  accordingly  I  made  ar- 
rangements for  so  doing;  in  the  Afternoon  I  went  to  his 
House  with  Dr.  Mason  Warren  who  told  him  the  deci- 
sion of  his  Medical  Advisers;  he  said  he  did  not  agree 
with  them,  but  when  I  made  a  strong  appeal  to  his  kind 
feelings,  he  said  he  would  go  if  I  wished  it.  He  went  very 
quietly,  after  bidding  his  wife  goodbye  with  a  kiss.  I  have 
had  few  or  no  more  trying  scenes  in  the  course  of  my 
life.  Oh,  that  I  could  with  truth  say,  Lord,  Thy  Will  be 
done !  Dr.  Warren  thinks  by  attention  to  his  diet  he  will  re- 
cover. 19^.  Went  to  see  dear  Frank  and  found  him  comfort- 
able and  contented,  which  is  a  great  gratification  to  us  all. 

1  On  a  picture  of  this  Chapel  now  owned  by  Mrs.  Frederic  Cunningham  is  writ- 
ten: "First  Epis.  Missionary  Chapel  erected  in  China  by  the  American  Board  of 
Missions  at  the  expense  of  the  Hon.  Wm  Appleton.  Shanghai,  July,  1852." 


130  William  Appleton  [1848 

10th.  Find  myself  now  confined  to  the  house  with  a  cold 
taken  going  with  my  dear  Frank  to  Somerville,  much  dis- 
tressed in  mind  at  the  separation  from  my  now  eldest  son. 
l\th.  Georgiana  had  a  long  letter  from  Frank;  he  said  he 
expected  his  Father  to  see  him,  all  that  he  knew  that  was 
good  he  got  from  him. 

FEBRUARY  ir«*.  Dr.  Warren  and  some  Gent*  at 
my  House  in  relation  to  the  musick  in  St.  Paul's;1 
poor  concern  for  me  to  be  in;  no  good  from  it.  15^.  Went 
to  the  Hospital  and  found  Frank  quiet  and  contented. 
God  be  Praised.  IInd,  We  have  a  Rumor  of  Peace  with 
Mexico,  I  fancy  it  is  well  founded.  28M.  Mr.  The0  Lyman 
gave  a  Ball  at  Tremont  House,  Harriet  &  Master  Charles 
of  the  party. 

MARCH  \ofK  We  have  accounts  of  Revolution  in 
France;  what  will  be  the  result  no  one  can  tell; 
my  feeling  is,  it  will  be  like  that  of  1830.  27^.  The  steamer 
arrived  with  the  accounts  of  a  Republican  Government  in 
France. 

A  PRIL  8^.  Went  to  visit  our  dear  Frank,  I  see  no  im- 
ii  provement;  Dr.  Bell  says  he  cannot  find  the  cause 
of  the  Malady.  \$th.  Went  with  Mrs.  Appleton  to  see  our 
dear  Frank.  He  was  pleased  to  see  us;  it  is  heartrending 

1  The  story  in  the  family  is  that  Mr.  Appleton  cared  so  little  for  music  that  he 
had  been  known  to  put  cotton  wool  in  his  ears  when  he  escorted  his  wife  to  a 
concert. 


1848]  Diary  131 

to  feel  that  he  is  separated  from  us.  2o//;.  Went  to  Somer- 
ville  this  morning,  much  encouraged  as  to  Frank;  Dr.  Bell 
agreed  to  go  a  journey  with  him. 


M 


AY  29^.  Mrs.  A.  A.  L.'s  Child  Christened  Amory 
Appleton;  Parents  &  myself  Sponsors. 


JUNE  8th.  We  hear  of  the  Nomination  of  Gen1  Taylor 
by  Telegraph;  we  are  disappointed  by  finding  we  do 
not  get  Mr.  Lawrence1  nominated  for  Vice-Pres*.  i\th. 
Georgiana  and  her  little  boy  left  us  for  Salem.  We  think 
highly  of  her  &  the  Child.  27^.  Went  to  North  Brookfield 
to  attend  the  celebration  of  the  fiftieth  Anniversary  of  Dr. 
Snell's  Ministry;  a  truly  Pious,  useful  man.  I  was  very 
much  gratified;  a  very  large  assemblage,  a  good  discourse 
&  fine  musick.  Mrs.  Cary,  formerly  Lydia  Hall,  the  only 
remaining  Communicant  with  my  Father,  Present. 

JULY  "jth.  Our  Son  Wm's  Wife  was  confined  yesterday 
with  Son  and  Daughter.  \ith.  Steamer  arrivd  with  sad 
accounts  from  Paris.  29^.  Went  to  Waltham;  I  find  Mr. 
Greene  very  much  troubled  with  weakness  in  his  limbs, 
a  very  great  change  for  the  worse  within  two  weeks;  he 
thinks  it  the  effect  of  drinking  water  drawn  through  lead 
pipes;  it  is  possible  he  is  right;  his  Physicians  encourage 
the  belief;  it  would  be  cruel  to  remove  the  delusion,  but 
my  fear  &  belief  is  that  it  is  a  disease  of  the  nerves  and 
that  he  will  be  a  Cripple  the  rest  of  life.  31^.  Mrs.  Greene 

1  Hon.  Abbott  Lawrence. 


132  William  Appleton  [1848 

had  her  infant  daughter  Christened — named  Elizabeth 
Clark. 


SEPTEMBER  28^.  After  Attending  to  my  usual  busi- 
ness I  left  for  home,  intending  to  visit  my  son  at  Som- 

erville.  In  passing  rapidly  through in  my  buggy 

or  Carryall,  over  a  mound  of  earth  where  the  street  had 
been  opened,  the  bolt  that  connected  the  front  wheels  of 
the  Carriage  with  the  after  gave  way;  I  was  thrown  over 
the  dashboard  into  the  street,  and  received  a  blow  on  my 
back  which  for  a  time  appeared  to  have  sent  the  breath 
from  my  body;  I  soon  so  far  recovered  as  to  get  into  a 
Carriage  and  was  carried  to  our  residence  in  Brookline, 
where  I  suffered  much;  but  with  kind  and  skilful  atten- 
tion most  of  the  time  twice  a  day  from  Dr.  Warren  for  four 
weeks  I  so  far  recovered  as  to  ride  to  Boston  and  was  soon 
able  to  attend  to  my  usual  occupation. 

OCTOBER  14A  Hon.  Jeremiah  Mason  died,  much 
Respected  for  his  superior  talents.  I  felt  his  death 
much;  we  have  been  intimate,  considering  the  difference 
of  age  and  standing;  he  often  spoke  of  me  in  terms  com- 
plimentary, and  showed  confidence.  25th.  The  Water  from 
Cochituate  Lake  formally  entered  the  City;  the  ceremony 
was  brilliant;  the  day  was  fine  and  all  very  successful.  28^. 
Hon.  Harrison  Gray  Otis  died  this  morning;  a  man  of  ex- 
traordinary talents;  his  manner  superior  to  almost  any  of  the 
present  age;  I  have  known  him  well  for  thirty-five  years. 
He  was  more  useful  in  bringing  me  into  society  than  any 


(yV-^7/i  /?  t^crrurxu^c  \Ji  a  t  n^Ce^cC  r>u-  <LyL^a^u^ 


1849]  Diary  133 

other  Gentn;  this  was  from  attentions  I  paid  his  Mother 
&  Sisters  when  his  Father  died  at  Washington.  His  funeral 
was  quite  private.  31^.  Whig  Torchlight  Procession,  very 
Brilliant  from  five  thousand  torches.  I  doubt  if  these  ex- 
hibitions have  much  effect. 

NOVEMBER  7**.  We  are  all  very  much  interested 
in  the  result  of  the  Election  of  the  Pres*  of  the 
U.  States  which  takes  place  this  day.  Taylor  will  probably 
be  elected.  10th.  Mr  Healy  passed  most  of  the  day  with 
me,  painting  my  Portrait.1 

DECEMBER  8'*.  Went  to  Waltham;  I  am  troubled 
for  Mrs.  Greene's  health.  31^.  Among  the  pleasantest 
affairs  of  my  life  has  been  taking  charge  of  Mr.  F.  C.  Gray's 
business,  and  saving  him  from  bankruptcy. 


1849 

JANUARY  &*.  Went  with  Mrs.  F.  H.  &  Mrs.  Amory 
Appleton  to  see  them  race  on  the  Neck.  16^.  Meet- 
ing Provident  Institution,  the  first  time  in  which  I  pre- 
sided. 

FEBRUARY  1".  Warren  Club  met  at  our  House; 
very  pleasant,  some  fifty  Gentn.  No  wine.  20^.  I  had 
to  dine  William  Gray,  Samuel  Hooper,  Henry  P.  Sturgis, 

1  For  Mr.  F.  C.  Gray;  later  it  was  given  to  Susan  M.  Loring;  it  is  now  owned 
by  Rev.  William  Appleton  Lawrence. 


134  William  Appleton  [^49 

J.  Ingersoll  Bowditch,  William  Amory,  Henry  B.  Rogers, 
J.  Lothrop  Motley,  Thomas  C.  Amory,  Ignatius  Sargent, 
Calvin  Haven,  Charles  Lyman,  Thomas  D wight,  Samuel 
Austin,  Edward  Austin  and  Sullivan  Warren — a  pleasant 
dinner.  28^.  Went  to  Worcester;  at  Meeting  of  Trustees 
Lunatick  Hospital. 

MARCH  1".  Visited  the  Asylum  with  Messrs.  Phillips, 
Lincoln  and  Salisbury;  found  it  generally  in  good 
order,  but  too  many  Patients,  and  some  changes  should 
be  made.  opth.  Went  to  Dr.  Cross  for  the  twentieth  time  to 
have  electricity  applied  to  my  arm. 

\  PRIL  16^.  Went  to  Cambridge  with  Charles  to  ar- 
JT\.  range  for  a  Tutor  for  him.  ijt/l.  Went  to  Somer- 
ville;  Dr.  Bell  speaks  encouragingly  of  Frank;  I  see  very 
little  hope.  19^.  Went  to  Cambridge  to  arrange  with  Mr. 
Hooper  to  take  charge  of  Charles. 

MAY  Ist.  Took  Mr.  Peele  of  London  to  Brookline. 
\th.  Went  to  ride  with  Mrs.  Appleton  and  to  see 
the  monument  we  have  for  Mount  Auburn.  ofh.  Mr.  Benj. 
Wiggin  died  this  Morning.  I  have  long  known  him;  a 
very  correct  man  in  his  intercourse  with  others;  apparently 
with  no  fixed  religious  views;  he  lived  with  little  happi- 
ness and  died  almost  unthought  of.  \\th.  Mr.  Wiggin  in- 
terred. Went  to  the  House,  opened  the  Will;  a  strong 
commentary  on  the  saving  of  money  for  relatives,  in  see-  , 
ing  the  dissatisfaction  expressed  by  Most  persons.  \$th. 


1849]  Diary  135 

Went  to  Brookline  with  the  Rives'.  At  Miss  Sears'  wed- 
ding at  evening.  1$th.  Mr.  Franklin  Dexter  dined  with 
me.  Meeting  Committee  on  the  tablet  for  Bunker  Hill 
Monument  at  Dr.  Warren's — Messrs.  Everett,  Dexter, 
Webster  and  myself  compose  the  committee.  28//r.  Went 
to  Brookline  with  Mr.  Abbott  Lawrence;  he  will  go  to 
London  if  nothing  particular  occurs  to  prevent.  29^.  Went 
to  Groton1  with  Hetty  and  found  Sarah  and  all  quite 
well. 

JUNE  12'*.  Mr.  Gray  &  Mr.  Dexter  came  to  Brook- 
line to  arrange  as  to  placing  the  Dog.2  \$th.  Placed  Mr. 
Gray's  dog  in  our  Grounds;  he  presented  it  to  me;  but 
it  is  my  intention  that  it  shall  be  placed  over  his  grave. 
10th.  Went  to  Cambridge  to  attend  the  inauguration  of 
Pres*  Sparks. 

JULY  \ith.  Sarah  &  Children  were  with  us  at  dinner. 
Judge  Eustis  &  Lady  called.  16^.  Hetty  quite  ill, 
high  pulse,  120. 

\  UGUST  3r<  National  Fast — on  account  of  the  Chol- 
xjL  era.  j*K  Went  to  Newport  with  Charles  in  pursuit  of 
lodgings.  14A  Left  Brookline  at  7  A.M.  with  Hetty,  Mrs. 
Appleton,  Harriet,  Charles,  Nurse,  Abby  &  two  men  ser- 
vants, for  Newport.  Carried  Hetty  in  the  Cars  &  boat  on 
a  Mattress. 

1  Home  of  the  Lawrence  ancestors. 

8  This  marble  dog  is  now  by  the  gravestone  of  Mr.  F.  C.  Gray  in  Mt.  Auburn. 


136  William  Appleton  [1849 

SEPTEMBER  8M.  Returned  from  Newport  where  we 
remained  almost  four  Weeks.  Hetty  very  much  im- 
proved, we  trust,  is  in  a  fair  way  to  get  her  health.  17^. 
Went  to  Plymouth  with  a  large  party  to  dine;  there  were 
nearly  One  Hundred  present.  Mr.  Webster,  Mr.  Everett, 
Mr.  Winthrop  &  several  others  made  speeches  much  to 
the  delight  of  the  audience.  Dr.  Mercer  of  New  Orleans 
went  with  me,  Commodore  Morris  was  my  guest.  A  pleas- 
ant day;  we  returned  to  Brookline  at  1 1  o'clock.  2iJ/l.  Mr. 
&  Mrs.  Abbott  Lawrence  called  to  make  us  a  P.  P.  C. 
Visit.  26^.  Mr.  Lawrence  sailed  in  the  Steamer  for  Eng- 
land. 

OCTOBER  8^.  The  Storm  of  yesterday  caused  the 
loss  of  more  than  One  Hundred  lives,  by  a  Brig  from 
Ireland  going  on  shore  near  Scituate.  \2th.  We  this  day 
proved  Mr.  Benj.  Wiggin's  Will.  Strange,  when  we  see 
the  folly  in  others  in  laying  up  money  they  know  not  for 
whom,  we  do  not  take  knowledge. 

NO  VE M  B  E R  1 3"*.  Party  at  Mrs.  Nathan  Appleton's ; 
quite  large  and  elegant  and  Fashionable.  15^.  Dined 
at  Mr.  Francis  Lowell's,  party  of  Ladies  &  Gentlemen; 
very  stylish  &  pleasant.  17^.  We  gave  a  dinner  party  to 
Mr.  &  Mrs.  Winthrop,  consisting  of  the  bride  and  bride- 
groom, Mr.  &  Mrs.  Webster,  Mr.  &  Mrs.  N.  Appleton, 
Mr.  &  Mrs.  Paige,  Mr.  &.  Mrs.  James  S.  Amory,  Mr. 
&  Mrs.  Sears,  Miss  Appleton,  Mr.  Grinnell,  Mr.  Gray  & 


1849]  Diary  137 

Mr.  Prescott;  twenty,  including  Mrs.  Appleton  &  my- 
self— as  many  as  our  table  will  accommodate.  Sat  down  to 
dinner  at  y2  past  five  o'clock :  all  passed  off  very  satisfac- 
torily. 26M.  Went  with  a  large  party  to  Cochituate  Lake ; 
a  most  lovely  day;  a  fine  day  it  would  be  in  April;  Honble 
Mr.  Twistleton,  introduced  by  Messrs.  Baring  Brothers  & 
Co.,  went  with  us.  28^.  Attended  Court  with  Mr.  Twistle- 
ton; Mr.  Choate  spoke,  also  Benjamin  R.  Curtis.  opth.  I 
went  to  the  Court  and  heard  Mr.  Loring  in  the  case  of  the 
Iron  Company;  I  fear  my  friend  Gray  will  lose  the  case. 

DECEMBER  Ist.  Very  great  excitement  on  account 
of  the  arrest  of  Dr.  Webster.1  bth.  Consecration  of 
Church  at  Waltham;  a  large  pleasant  party  at  dinner  at 
Mr.  Greene's;  Bish.  Potter  was  with  us.  2oM.  Warren  Club 
at  my  House.  Dr.  Gould  &  Mr.  Agassiz  lectured.  31". 
This  ends  another  year.  In  the  way  of  business  I  have  less 
than  in  any  year  since  I  returned  from  Europe,  more  than 
thirty  years  since.  I  have  not  suffered  for  the  want  of  occu- 
pation, yet  I  am  quite  satisfied  I  should  make  a  Mistake 
to  have  less.  My  income  has  been  fully  equal  to  the  In- 
terest at  six  per  cent  on  my  Capital.  I  disburse  freely,  yet 
my  property  increases.  There  has  been  no  distress  with  the 
men  of  business;  Commerce  has  been  generally  profitable. 
Rail  Roads  that  have  been  commenced  within  the  last  three 
years  are  bad  generally.  I  think  there  is  owned  in  Massa- 
chusetts more  than  Sixty  Millions  of  dollars  cost  in  Rail 

1  He  was  convicted  of  the  murder  of  Dr.  George  Parkman  at  the  Harvard 
Medical  School,  and  he  was  hanged. 


138  William  Appleton  [1849 

Road  Stocks;  at  this  time  not  worth  more  than  forty-eight 
Millions  for  the  sixty;  or  twenty  per  cent  discount.  My 
belief  is  that  all  the  roads  entering  into  Boston  except  the 
Old  Colony  will  give  a  fair  income;  but  those  far  from 
the  City  such  as  the  Masstts  &  Vermont,  Rutland  and  Ver- 
mont Central  will  be  bad  property.  I  think  the  business 
of  the  coming  year  will  be  good  except  Manufacturing. 
To  increase  my  fortune  I  can  hardly  desire,  yet  I  am  as 
much  displeased  by  a  bad  speculation  as  when  I  had  very 
limited  means. 

1850 

JANUARY  yd.  Attended  the  funeral  of  Mr.  B.  Gil- 
bert, an  early  friend  of  my  parents,  an  excellent  man, 
much  beloved  and  esteemed  by  his  Acquaintances.  ioM. 
Dr.  Robbins  died.  A  man  of  kindest  feeling  and  a  gen- 
eral favourite. 

FEBRUARY  v*.  Walked  to  State  Street  and  to  Mr. 
Wm.  Sohier's;  shew  him  an  anonymous  publication 
from  a  New  York  Penny  paper  which  annoys  me  &  Mrs. 
A.;  as  to  any,  there  is  not  the  slightest  approach  to  truth 
in  the  attack.  bth.  There  was  a  party  at  Mr.  James  S. 
Amory's,  quite  pleasant,  called  the  Ladies  Whist  Party. 
8M.  Mrs.  Appleton  had  a  party  consisting  of  about  One 
Hundred;  said  to  be  very  pleasant  —  musick  &  a  Dance. 
I  have  been  engaged  in  attending  to  Mr.  Nathan  Apple- 
ton's  will.  \\th.  Meeting  Trustees  of  the  Society  for  Dis- 
seminating Christian  Knowledge.  i8M.  Went  with  A.  A. 


1850]  Diary  139 

Lawrence  to  see  the  land  he  and  his  brother  propose  pur- 
chasing of  Mr.  Francis;1  a  poor  business  I  think;  so  I  told 
him;  he  will  find  it  so.  19^.  Went  to  Worcester  to  meet 
the  Trustees  of  Lunatic  Hospital;  a  Meeting  Hadley  Falls 
Co.  in  afternoon;  Dr.  Hay  ward's  in  the  Evening. 

MARCH  bth.  Went  to  Newport  to  engage  lodgings 
for  the  summer.  \\th.  Mrs.  Appleton  had  Sewing 
Circle.  2oM.  Attended  Dr.  Webster's  trial.  They  will  not 
convict  him  I  think;  so  it  looks  now.  21st.  Small  party  at 
Miss  Amory's,  Temple  Place.  23r<  Snow  storm;  have  sel- 
dom seen  the  trees  more  beautiful.  opth.  The  trial  of  Dr. 
Webster  brought  to  a  close ;  after  hearing  the  Charge  of  the 
Judge,  I  went  to  prepare  Mrs.  Prescott  for  the  news  of  the 
sad  event. 

APRIL  2nd.  Went  to  Cambridge  to  see  Mr.  Everett  & 
ii  Mr.  Cushing  as  to  raising  some  money  for  Mrs.  Web- 
ster &  daughters.  l$th.  Left  Boston  for  the  South.  Slept  at 
Springfield;  arrivd  at  N.York  16th;  at  Philadelphia,  18th; 
stayed  until  1st  May.  Much  attention  from  our  friends. 

MAY  2nd.  At  Washington;  remained  eight  days;  dined 
at  several  of  our  friends';  pleasant  evening  parties. 
Arrived  home  the  13th;  pleased  to  find  ourselves  at  our 
home  &  grateful  that  no  accident  had  befallen  us  during 
absence.  2  Ist.  At  Mr.  Wm.  J.  Hubbard's  to  meet  two  Sand- 

1  Mr.  A.  A.  Lawrence  built  there,  having  a  place  of  about  eight  acres.  His  house 
and  part  of  this  land  are  now  occupied  by  Mrs.  Frederic  Cunningham. 


140  William  Appleton  [1850 

wich  Island  Chiefs  —  fine  fellows.  30^.  Went  with  Mrs. 
Appleton  and  Children  to  see  "The  Ravenels." 

JUNE  6th.  Went  to  Waltham  with  Mrs. Greene  who  has 
been  confined  by  severe  illness  nearly  three  months; 
now  very  weak.  j*A.  I  find  myself  much  better  since  I  gave 
up  Coffee  and  Wine.  14A  Went  to  Charlestown  to  see  the 
preparations  for  the  17th.  17^.  Interesting  Discourse  from 
Mr.  Everett  on  the  75th  Anniversary  Battle  Bunker  Hill. 
22«<  Young  ladies  went  to  Mrs.  Brooks'  to  tea  at  Med- 
ford.  25//z.  Mrs.  Lawrence's  Child  Christened  William. 
27^.  Mrs.  Lawrence  with  her  four  children  passed  the  day 
with  us;  her  youngest  4  Weeks.  28M.  Mrs.  F.  H.  Appleton 
left  us  with  her  son,  a  fine  boy ;  they  have  been  some  days 
with  us. 


J 


ULY  10**.  Left  for  Newport;  12^.  Find  time  hangs 
rather  heavy. 


SEPTEMBER  4A  Bathed,  was  weighed;  found  I  had 
gained  two  pounds  since  last  weighed;  present  weight 
is  One  hundred  and  two  pounds,  I  think  it  is  the  great- 
est for  twenty  years.  1  &K  Took  Sir  John  &  Lady  Camp- 
bell to  Brookline;  pleasant  people.  27^.  Went  to  Hear 
Jenny  Lind  and  was  much  pleased ;  for  the  Tickets  I  paid 
$iiA2j4-  28M.  Engaged  in  getting  subscription  for  Mrs. 
Dr.  Webster;  got  four  thousand  dollars  in  a  small  part  of 
the  day.  30^.  Left  with  Dr.  Vinton  for  Cincinnati  for  the 
Triennial  Convention;  slept  at  Albany. 


1850]  Diary  141 

OCTOBER  1*.  Arrivd  Buffalo,  &  embarked  in  Steamer 
for  Sandusky  City;  severe  storm  on  the  Lake.  yd- 
Arrivd  at  Cincinnati,  passed  most  of  the  day  at  the  Con- 
vention; nothing  very  interesting.  \th.  Went  to  Conven- 
tion. 5^.  Attended  the  Cattle  Show,  Horticultural  Exhi- 
bition, and  Mechanick's  Institution.  yt/l.  Went  with  Mr. 
Longworth  to  the  Garden  of  Endor,  a  large  Vineyard. 
ioM.  Left  with  Judge  Boardman  for  Louisville;  arrivd  late 
at  night,  stopping  at  several  Cities  in  Indiana.  11**.  Left 
Louisville  in  Stage  for  Frankfort;  very  fine  Country  we 
passed  through ;  then  took  the  Rail  Road  for  Lexington. 
12**.  Slept  at  Mr.  Clay's  the  last  night,  went  to  the  City, 
made  some  calls,  returned,  some  Gentn  at  dinner.  Very 
much  pleased;  Country  Beautiful.  13^.  At  church;  at 
evening  took  a  Carriage  &  rode  some  twenty-five  miles 
through  a  beautiful  Country  on  our  way  to  Cincinnati. 
14A  Took  Stage  at  seven  o'clock,  pleased  with  our  ride  to 
Cincinnati.  15th.  Dined  with  Mr.  Longworth,  quite  a  party; 
Large  House,  plain  dinner,  a  large  party,  mostly  Bishops 
&  Clergy.  16^.  At  Convention;  at  a  very  large  party  at 

Capt. &  at  Judge  Pendleton's.  Left  at  evening;  slept 

at  Xenia.  17**.  Arrived  with  many  of  our  friends  at  San- 
dusky. 18^.  Left  for  and  arrived  at  Detroit,  a  very  fine 
City  &  will  increase.  19**.  Left  for  Buffalo  in  Steamer.  2\st. 
Went  to  Niagara  &  then  to  Batavia;  fine  day,  pleasant 
party.  22«<  Took  steamer  on  Seneca  Lake  and  Rail  Road 
at  Jefferson,  on  the  Erie  R.R.,  arrivd  at  New  York  at  9 
o'clock;  a  most  Interesting  day,  the  scenery  sublime  & 


142  William  Appleton  [^50 

beautiful.  23r<  Made  several  calls;  left  at  4  P.M.  for  my 
dear  Home.  24^.  Arrived  at  4  A.M.;  found  all  as  well  as 
usual.  Went  to  see  our  dear  Mary  Ann;  found  her  some- 
what emaciated  since  I  left,  but  not  materially  changed. 
2 $th.  Much  to  my  surprise  I  was  pressed  to  have  my  name 
used  as  a  Candidate  for  Congress:  Was  nominated  &  shall 
stand  as  a  Candidate.  I  have  strong  doubts  as  to  the  Wis- 
dom of  the  decision;  I  am  not  suited  for  the  situation. 
26^.  Many  congratulations  &  complimentary  remarks 
made  to  me.  I  do  not  feel  satisfied  with  the  idea  of  going 
to  Washington;  pleased  to  find  my  friends  speak  so  kindly 
of  my  nomination,  I  doubt  if  it  is  for  good.  Shall  I  not 
be  drawn  more  into  the  World  and  further  from  Him  to 
Whom  we  should  owe  sole  confidence  and  trust  ?  I  doubt 
myself. 

NOVEMBER  1".  Went  with  Mrs.  Appleton toSalem; 
pleasant  dinner  with  Georgiana  and  Dear  Frank.  4^. 
Dined  at  Revere  House  with  the  Turkish  Envoy  and  some 
sixty  Gentn.  IIth.  Elected  to  the  Congress  of  the  U.  S.; 
I  have  many  doubts  as  to  the  propriety  of  accepting  the 
trust,  I  fear  I  shall  disappoint  my  friends.  13^.  A  party 
at  dinner  consisting  of  twenty — Sir  H.  L.  Bulwer,  Mr. 
Webster,  Charles  P.  Curtis,  Mr.  M.  Williams  of  London, 
Mr.  Prue  of  Liverpool,  Mr.  Winthrop,  Judge  Warren, 
Benj.  R.  Curtis,  Sidney  Bartlett,  Samuel  A.  Eliot,  Joseph 
Grinnell,  Mr.  Everett,  Mr.  Silsbee,  Mr.  Ticknor,  William 
Appleton,  Jr.,  Francis  C.  Gray,  J.  S.  Copley  Greene,  Mrs. 
A.,  Harriet  &  myself.  Very  successful,  as  we  are  told. 


1850]  Diary  143 

14A  Dined  with  Mr.  F.  C.  Gray;  at  Mrs.  Paige's  splendid 
Ball.  15^.  Went  to  Mr.  Sparks'  &  Mr.  Cushing's  with  Sir 
H.  Bulwer,  dined  at  Charles  Amory's.  19^.  Dined  with  Mr. 
Saml  Eliot,  party  of  some  twelve  or  fourteen.  26^.  Splen- 
did Meeting  at  Faneuil  Hall  in  support  of  the  Consti- 
tution &  Union.  27^.  Party  of  twenty  at  dinner, — Chas 
Amory,  James  Lawrence,  Chas  Perkins,  Ed  Perkins,  N. 
Thayer,  F.  B.  Brooks,  A.  Otis,  John  Lowell,  Jr.,  S.  Eliot, 
T.  H.  Perkins,  Jr.,  T.  G.  Appleton,  Mr.  Dwight,  Cha* 
Lyman,  P.  Grant,  Mason  Warren,  Dr.  Hooper,  Wm  A.,  Jr., 
Mrs.  A.  &  Harriet.  Dinner  well  served  by  three  blacks  and 
our  two  servants;  it  consisted  first  of  cold  Oysters,  then 
sherry  wine  offered;  brown  &  white  soup,  followed  by 
Oyster  Pates,  Hock  wine  offered;  boiled  &  baked  Fish, 
Pass  the  wine;  next,  boiled  Turkey,  roast  Mutton,  Veal 
with  Peas  &  Ham;  Sweet  Bread  &  Croquettes;  then  Wine 
&  Roman  Punch.  After  Course,  two  pair  Canvas-Back 
Ducks,  two  pair  Grouse,  Wood  Cocks  &  Quails,  with 
Salad;  —  Blanc  Mange,  Jelly,  Baked  &  Frozen  Pudding, 
etc.,  etc.,  with  Ice  Cream,  Grapes,  Pears,  Apples,  Oranges, 
&  Ornamental  Sweets  from  the  Confectioner;  a  Bouquet 
for  Centre  costing  twenty-five  Dollars.  This  is  our  third 
Party  this  month.  So  much  for  the  Fashion  of  the  day;  fruit 
&  Flowers  placed  on  table  before  dinner  &  remain  during 
the  whole  time. 

DECEMBER  VK  The  last  evening  at  the  Meeting  of 
the  Communicants,  I  felt  more  interest  than  usual; 
my  mind  was  tranquil  and  I  had  a  strong  desire  that  I 


144  William  Appleton  [^50 

might  have  grace  to  go  to  the  Table  of  our  Lord  free  from 
earthly  thoughts;  I  prayed  for  such  assistance.  Thank  God, 
the  day  has  passed  most  pleasantly;  I  attended  all  the  ser- 
vices of  the  Church  with  more  than  usual  satisfaction;  par- 
ticularly the  Communion.  I  have  never  had  to  my  mind  the 
system  of  Salvation  through  the  Blood  of  Christ  more  fully 
to  my  conception;  the  darkness  that  at  times  hovers  about, 
disappeared.  Oh,  that  I  may  have  grace  given  me  that  I 
may  be  enabled  to  put  worldly  cares  and  pleasures  behind 
me,  looking  forward  only  to  the  inestimable  prize;  not 
only  looking  forward,  but  enjoying  the  present!  What  is 
to  be  compared  with  the  Peace  that  God  giveth!  I  attrib- 
ute much  of  my  anxiety  the  last  few  years  to  my  busi- 
ness which  has  been  profitable  beyond  the  natural  income, 
which,  being  hazardous,  led  me  to  feel  a  desire  to  lay  it 
aside  for  a  change.  May  I  have  less  hazard  &  no  misgiv- 
ings of  duty.  9^.  Went  to  visit  Col.  Perkins,  who  gave  me 
a  Gold  snuff  Box,  I  fancy  he  thinks  his  days  are  few.  1 2th. 
Harriet  had  a  dinner  party  of  twenty-four  of  her  young 
friends;  very  pleasant.  Rather  troubled  as  to  Wm's  health. 
18^.  Went  to  Salem,  dined  with  Mr.  Silsbee;  I  think  they 
are  very  desirous  of  keeping  the  Property  of  Mrs.  A. 
under  their  controul.  I  shall  do  all  I  can  legally  to  meet 
their  wishes.  Xmas.  The  morning  beautiful;  Mrs.  Apple- 
ton  troubled  with  ague  in  her  face.  Went  to  church;  at  the 
Communion,  not  satisfied  with  myself;  this  was  from  get- 
ting my  mind  fixed  on  a  letter  I  had  recd  and  answered  in 
the  morning,  &  not  finding  my  Son  at  church.  I  feared  he 
was  getting  wrong  feelings  on  Religious  Subjects,  and  in 


1851 J  Diary  145 

my  fears  for  him  I  was  lost  to  all  good  impressions.  We  had 
with  us  at  dinner  most  of  our  family.  Mr.  Jefferson  Coolidge, 
who  has  lately  become  engaged  to  Hetty,  was  of  our  party. 
I  think  well  of  him,  but  did  not  approve  of  the  engagement 
on  account  of  their  age;  both  being  less  than  twenty  years 
old.  31^.  Went  with  Mrs.  Appleton  &  Hetty  to  an  As- 
sembly; did  not  enter  into  the  feelings  of  the  party,  played 
Whist  most  of  the  evening,  returned  late  not  well  Sat- 
isfied. The  past  year  has  been  one  of  general  prosperity 
in  this  Country  and  Europe.  In  New  England  they  have 
been  much  crippled  by  bad  &  over  investments  in  Rail 
Road  stocks.  Manufacturing  Stocks  have  paid  less  divi- 
dends than  for  many  years.  The  difficulty  is  over  pro- 
duction. 

1851 

JANUARY  2nd.  Harriet  left  us  for  a  visit  to  Mr.  Dex- 
ter's  at  Beverly.  2jth.  The  "Cygnet"  arrived,  one  hun- 
dred and  five  days  from  Canton.  28^.  Left  for  Washing- 
ton, Willard's  Hotel,  with  Wm,  Harriet  and  Abby,  as 
Harriet's  attendant.  31^.  At  the  Prests  in  Evening,  and  at 
Mr.  Webster's  where  we  met  Many. 

FEBRUARY  i*.  At  Sir  H.  Bulwer's  to  dine  &  at 
Spanish  Minister  Calderon's  in  Evening.  2nd.  At 
Church,  a  good  but  trying  sermon  to  us  Worldlings.  On 
Friday  following  Wm  &  Harriet  left  me  for  Boston;  on 
Wednesday  I  followed  them.  Arrived  in  Boston,  Satur- 
day, 15th.  \"]th.  Went  to  Waltham  and  found  my  dear  Dia- 


146  William  Appleton  [1851 

mond1  better  than  when  I  left.  IInd.  Engaged  in  relation 
to  Mr.  S.  Apple  ton's  will;  what  Vanity  to  get  money,  it 
only  brings  Vexation.  T~]th.  Some  of  our  family  were  at  a 
Fancy  Ball  at  Mrs.  Parker's. 

MARCH  i8M.  Most  violent  storm  of  the  Winter,  one 
&  a  half  foot  of  snow  fell.  19^.  Communication  with 
the  south  almost  stopped;  no  cars  from  Lowell.  21*.  Went 
to  Waltham,  found  Mrs.  Greene  suffering  from  a  pain  in 
her  side,  had  applied  leeches.  Went  to  see  dear  Frank  — 
no  comfort.  1\th.  Wet  morning;  went  to  Cambridge  to  in- 
quire for  President  Sparks'  Health. 

APRIL  ?K  A  Ball  at  Mr.  John  E.  Thayer's.  22*<  Mr. 
x\.  &  Mrs.  Dexter  called  to  see  us,  in  consequence  of 
the  engagement  which  is  quite  satisfactory  with  all.  24A 
Mr.  Sumner  elected  to  the  U.  S.  Senate.  27^.  Went  with 
Dr.  J.  Mason  Warren  to  Waltham;  I  do  not  get  from  him 
much  to  lead  me  to  hope  that  Mrs.  Greene  will  again  have 
much  health. 

MAY  \$th.  Went  to  Beverly  to  see  the  Dexters;  we 
found  ourselves  well  received.  19^.  Mr.  Greene 
wrote  that  our  dear  Mary  Ann  was  much  more  ill;  went  to 
Waltham  and  found  her  weak  but  in  a  beautiful  State  of 
Mind. 


1  His  pet  name  for  Mrs.  Greene. 


1851]  Diary  147 

JUNE  17th.  Went  to  Nashua.  Meetings  Jackson  & 
Nashua  Compnies.  Went  with  Mrs.  A.  to  hear  Jenny 
Lind. 

JULY  isf.  Went  to  Cambridge  to  arrange  with  Mr. 
Longfellow1  to  take  charge  of  Charles  going  to  Europe; 
I  do  not  feel  pleasantly  at  the  idea  of  parting  with  him, 
I  trust  it  is  all  right.  26M.  My  nephew  Wm  A.  Burnham 
died  the  last  evening  at  Providence;  much  regretted; 
quiet,  but  warm  in  his  affections  &  correct  in  all  his  habits. 
I  went  to  Providence  and  found  his  mother  &  sisters  as 
well  as  I  expected.  28t/l.  Went  with  Mrs.  Appleton,  Mrs. 
Lawrence,  Charles  &  Mr.  Whitney  to  Providence  to  at- 
tend the  funeral  of  Wm.  A.  Burnham;  brought  the  corpse 
&  placed  it  under  St.  Paul's. 

AUGUST  16'*.  Went  with  Mr.  Longfellow,  Charles  & 
l\  Hetty  to  see  the  " Europa,"  fine  vessel.  20^.  Our 
dear  Charles  left  us  in  good  spirits  with  Mr.  Longfellow 
for  Europe.  It  is  with  mingled  feelings  that  we  part  with 
our  dear  and  youngest  Child;  we  think  it  well  so  to  do;  he 
is  as  free  from  faults  as  almost  anyone  I  ever  knew.  God 
bless  and  protect  him! 

SEPTEMBER   $th.  Cuban  insurrection  is  done  up. 
\oth.  Went  to  Springfield  to  attend  Convention  to 
nominate  State  Officers.  \\th.  Harriet  left  us  with  Mr.  & 

1  Rev.  Saml  Longfellow. 


148  William  Appleton  [1851 

Mrs.  Franklin  Dexter  &  Gordon  for  New  York.  17^.  The 
Rail  Road  Jubilee  commenced.  Pres*  Fillmore  arrived 
in  the  City.  18^.  Grand  Dinner  for  the  Pres*  at  the  Re- 
vere House — I  remained  short  time — &  excursion  for  the 
Strangers  in  Harbour.  19^.  Grand  Show  of  Mechanicks, 
&  procession,  the  largest  I  ever  saw  in  Boston.  10th.  Din- 
ner party  for  twenty-one  went  off  very  well,  Mr.  Webster 
very  dull. 

OCTOBER  ind.  Mr.  Sterling,  a  young  Englishman 
introduced  by  Mr.  Fisher,  dined  with  us.  9^.  Bishop 
Potter  arrived  &  Breakfasted  with  us,  dined  and  left  at 
three  o'clock.  Our  third  daughter  was  married  at  St. 
Paul's  Church ;  a  very  large  number  of  our  friends  were 
present;  the  Church  was  quite  full.  The  connection  is  very 
agreeable  to  us  and  Mr.  Dexter's  family;  they  appear  to 
have  a  fair  share  of  happiness.  At  9  o'clock  Mrs.  Apple- 
ton  received  the  company;  the  House  was  crowded  until 
nearly  eleven  o'clock;  very  pleasant  apparently;  supper 
was  prepared  for  the  guests,  &  musick.  The  Bridegroom 
&  Bride  left  for  our  House  in  Brookline  at  y2  past  eleven 
o'clock;  delightful  day  &  Evening!  1  Ith.  Rode  to  see  Mrs. 
Lawrence  &  the  bride  at  Brookline,  with  Hetty.  22nd. 
Passed  the  Morning  at  Meeting  of  several  persons  con- 
nected with  Rail  Roads  to  N.  York.  2yd.  Left  with  Mr. 
N.  Appleton,  Sears,  Wm.  Amory,  J.  Tilden,  J.  S.  Amory, 
Mr.  Whitney,  Mr.  L  Sargent,  &  H.  Cabot  for  Vermont, 
slept  at  Northfield.  Entertained  by  Governor  Paine;  very 
good  dinner,  etc.  2\th.  Went  to  Rouse's  Point,  dined  & 


1851]  Diary  149 

returned  to  Burlington;  supper  given  our  party  by  Mr. 
Peck.  2$th.  Returned  to  Boston  via  Rutland  and  Keene; 
very  satisfactory  journey.  26^.  Judge  Warren  brought  to 
see  us  Mr.  Davis,  member  of  Congress,  I  think  him  vain 
&  flighty.  31^.  A  beautiful  day;  Went  down  the  Harbour ; 
visited  the  Islands  &  forts  at  the  request  of  City  Govern- 
ment— some  Thirty  in  Party. 

NOVEMBER  6'A.  Attended  Wedding  of  Mr.  Wm 
Prescott  &  Miss  Peabody;  large  Party,  very  pleas- 
ant. i8M.  Engaged  in  getting  ready  to  go  to  Washington; 
sent  off  Horses,  etc.  24A  Left  for  Washington  with  Mrs. 
A.,  Hetty,  Mr.  J.  S.  Amory  &  Abby;  arr<*  N.  Y.  at  5  P.M.; 
found  Irving  House  most  pleasant.  26^.  Left  New  York 
for  Phila,  saw  two  Sleighs  making  their  way  with  a  mod- 
erate quantity  of  Snow.  29^.  At  Washington  we  found 
our  rooms  in  good  order  &  comfortable. 

DECEMBER  Ist.  Made  my  first  appearance  in  the 
Hall  as  a  Representative  from  Suffolk.  I  feel  doubt- 
ful of  the  Result.  2nd.  Engaged  at  the  House;  made  some 
calls  &  recd  some  visits.  Mr.  J.  S.  Amory  left  us;  a  good 
fellow  he  is.  o)rd.  Gov.  Davis,  Mr.  Stanley  &  Duncan  at 
dinner.  House  adjourned  until  Saturday.  \th.  Made  calls 
with  Ladies,  &  on  the  President  &  several  Gentlemen. 
0fh.  Attended  House,  very  little  to  interest  except  the 
Announcement  of  Committees,  I  am  on  that  of  Ways  & 
Means;  the  most  important — a  compliment  to  my  con- 
stituents &  self.   13^.  Cold  blustering  day;  made  calls. 


150  William  Appleton  [1851 

Mr.  Fletcher  Webster,  J.  O.  Sargent  &  Mr.  Davis  were 
at  dinner.  l$th.  First  meeting  of  Committee  of  Ways  & 
Means;  in  House  until  three  o'clock.  i8M.  Dined  with 
Corcoran;  Party  of  18.  21".  At  Church  Morns  &  Eves;  at 
Evening  summoned  to  Mr.  Webster's  on  a/c  Revolution 
in  France.  22«<  Sleighing  pretty  good.  28^.  Rain,  Hail 
&  Ice  —  Bad  as  Boston.  30^.  Mr.  Greenough  &  Mr.  Sum- 
ner at  dinner.  31".  At  House  from  ten  (in  Committee  to 
12),  then  on  Kossuth  until  y£  past  nine.  Poor  business 
for  the  ending  of  the  year,  which  has  been  one  full  of  bless- 
ings not  without  very  great  anxiety.  Our  dear  daughter 
Mrs.  Greene's  life  we  have  despaired  of  at  times;  but  what 
a  consolation,  when  she  thought  her  days  and  hours  num- 
bered but  few,  to  hear  her  say  she  was  ready;  Christ  was 
all  in  all  to  her;  she  would  freely  give  up  all  this  world 
to  be  with  Him.  Her  Children,  her  Husband,  Parents, 
etc.  she  loved  dearly,  but  God's  will  was  her  will.  Our 
third  daughter  married  to  F.  G.  Dexter;  he  is  an  amiable, 
high  minded  man,  I  think  he  will  make  a  kind  husband; 
of  his  business  qualifications  I  do  not  think  very  highly. 
Mr.  Coolidge  has  been  a  very  constant  admirer  of  Hetty; 
I  think  well  of  him.  Poor  dear  Frank,  we  must  give  up 
almost  a  hope  for  his  recovery;  his  wife  and  boy  I  love 
much;  William  &  family  have  gone  on  much  as  the  pre- 
ceding year ;  his  twins  have  improved.  Dear  Sarah  is  as 
loving  &  lovable  as  ever;  all  agree  She  is  a  worthy  pat- 
tern for  her  sex.  Hetty  is  with  us  in  our  new  position, 
which  is  almost  untried.  We  find  ourselves  pleasantly  situ- 
ated in  our  domestic  affairs.  My  friends  have  by  their  kind 


1852]  Diary  151 

influence  put  me  in  a  high  position  not  only  as  a  Member 
of  Congress  but  have  given  such  Character  of  me  as  to 
give  me  a  stand  I  fear  I  cannot  sustain.  I  cannot  conclude 
without  a  word  of  my  dear  late  Amory's  Wife  and  Child ; 
he  is  a  fine  boy,  his  Mother  most  devoted  and  I  believe 
truly  conscientious. 

1852 

JANUARY  Ist.  Commences  with  a  fine  bright  sky,  mild 
atmosphere,  a  temperature  of  the  most  congenial.  The 
City  appears  in  motion;  every  person  out  making  calls  of 
congratulations.  I  went  with  Mrs.  Apple  ton  &  Hetty  to 
the  President's;  they  did  not  go  in;  I  did,  and  was  carried 
by  the  crowd  from  room  to  room  &  right  glad  to  get  into 
the  Street.  We  had  some  fifty  persons  calling  on  us.  Mrs. 
Appleton,  I  trust,  will  continue  to  like  this  place ;  she  is 
freed  from  the  responsibility  of  Housekeeping  which  is 
always  irksome  to  her ;  unwilling  to  relinquish  what  she 
thought  a  duty,  she  has  been  often  perplexed  in  doing  what 
she  was  not  from  habit  well  qualified  for;  with  the  kindest 
feelings,  often  mortified  by  feeling  she  lost  her  self  com- 
mand when  in  contact  with  those  in  her  employment.  2nd. 
Mr.  &  Mrs.  Tyler  &  John  G.  Appleton  at  dinner.  Mrs. 
Tyler,  the  Matron  of  the  McLean  Asylum,  a  very  superior 
woman.  §*K  Kossuth  at  Senate.  The  House  appointed  com- 
mittee to  invite  him  to  the  House;  I  was  not  willing  to 
vote  for  it,  nor  did  I  do  so,  although  by  myself  from  our 
section  of  the  Country;  I  am  right.  6tA.  At  Committee  at 
10  O'C,  House  until  3  O'C.  At  Assembly  with  Mrs.  A. 


152  William  Appleton  [^52 

&  Hetty.  7**.  At  dinner  given  Kossuth;  about  two  hundred 
&  fifty  present.  \oth.  Made  calls  with  Mrs.  A.  and  dined 
with  Mr.  Webster,  party  of  fourteen.  19^.  Very  cold.  Dan- 
cing party  at  Miss  Taylor's;  Hetty  &  I  went  for  a  short 
time.  We  really  suffer  from  cold  at  House  &  Committee. 
No  mails  from  North  or  South.  2VK  Party  at  dinner  of 
eighteen;  very  pleasant.  Mr.  Webster  with  us.  22K  Cold 
weather  continues ;  mails  through,  bringing  a  large  num- 
ber of  letters.  23^.  Pleasant  Dance  at  French  Minister's. 
Davis1  made  his  first  speech.  24A  Mr.  Corcoran's  at  even- 
ing, &  large  Party  of  Gentmn  at  Supper.  Mr.  &  Mrs. 
McCurdy  at  dinner.  26^.  At  the  Secretary  of  War's  in 
evening.  28^.  At  Calderons'  at  evening,  very  pleasant. 
30^.  Went  to  the  President's  with  Mr.  Silsbee,  Mr.  &  Mrs. 
Whiting,  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Thaxter.  31".  Party  of  twelve  to 
dine;  Mr.  Silsbee  &  his  son,  Mr.  &  Miss  Fillmore,  Mr. 
&  Mrs.  Seaton,  Mr.  Ingersoll  &  J.  Davis. 

FEBRUARY  4'A.  At  Conine  Morris'  for  supper  & 
at  Calderons'  with  Mrs.  A.  &  Hetty.  $th.  On  return- 
ing from  House  &  Committee  found  Telegraph  with  the 
pleasing  intelligence  that  Mrs.  A.  A.  Lawrence  has  an- 
other Daughter.  ~]th.  Dinner,  twenty-two;  very  pleasant;  I 
think  some  good  will  be  produced  by  bringing  together 
persons  from  distant  Parts.  \oth.  Dined  with  the  Russian 
Minister — Party  thirty-four.  \\*K  We  had  ten  to  dine; 
Mr.  &  Mrs.  Bartlett,  Judge  McLean,  Webster,  etc.  14A 
Some  twenty  at  dinner,  after  attendance  at  Committee  from 

1  Afterwards  President  of  the  Confederate  States. 


1852]  Diary  ,53 

10  to  4  P.M.  i6M.  Committee  &  House.  Mrs.  Coolidge, 
daughter  &  Jefferson  arrd.  18^.  Dined  with  Mr.  Webster, 
Ladies  with  us.  19^.  Party  of  Ladies  and  Gentmn:  Mr.  & 
Mrs.  Curtis,  Peabody,  Coolidge,  etc.  21^.  Splendid  Ban- 
quet in  Memory  of  the  birthday  of  Washington,  about 
150  at  table ;  I  was  an  active  Manager.  22»<  Worshipped  at 
Capitol  &  at  Mr.  Pyne's.  2.ofd.  At  House  and  Committee. 
Ball  at  Mr.  Corcoran's,  said  to  be  eleven  Hundred  there; 
very  splendid.  24A  Dinner  for  twenty,  went  off  well.  28^. 
Dined  at  Mr.  Corcoran's,  Party  of  twenty-four;  very  ele- 
gant: Russian  Minister.  Ladies,  Mrs.  Badger,  Mrs.  Stew- 
art, Mrs.  Appleton,  Mrs.  Peabody,  Mrs.  Coolidge. 

MARCH  5**.  Dined  with  Gen.  Crittenden,  &  was  at 
the  President's.  6th.  Mr.  Davis  made  reply  to  Mr. 
Rantoul  (not  much  do  I  think  he  gained).  13^.  A  large 
party  of  twenty-four  at  dinner — the  English,  French, 
Spanish  &  Russian  Ministers  and  the  Ladies  of  such  as 
have  Wives;  some  of  the  Secretaries  &  their  Ladies,  etc.; 
went  off  very  well.  19^.  We  had  some  twenty  to  dine. 
Brooks  made  a  good  speech  on  Deficiency  Bill.  26^.  Dined 
at  Mr.  King's,  President  of  Senate;  Mrs.  Appleton,  Hetty 
&  several  other  Ladies;  rather  more  splendid  than  usual  in 
Washington.  27th.  At  House;  Passed  the  Deficiency  Bill. 
31^.  Very  unpleasant  day;  I  am  less  pleased  than  with  any 
day  since  in  this  City;  had  an  indiscreet  and  indelicate 
speech  from  O.  Fowler. 


154  William  Appleton  [1852 

A  PRIL  1".  Dined  at  President's  with  Mrs.  Appleton, 
jLjL  Hetty  &  about  thirty  more;  very  pleasant,  more  so 
than  we  expected.  3r<  Had  a  very  pleasant  party  of 
twenty.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Agassiz  were  of  the  party,  General 
Scott,  Mr.  Granger,  etc.  5^.  Committee  &  House.  Com- 
promise Measure  discussed  until  near  six  O'clock.  9^.  At 
Mr.  Butler's  Church,  House,  and  Caucus  at  evening; 
not  looking  well  for  the  Whigs,  but  the  true  course  is  to 
cut  all  Abolitionists.  15^.  Dined  at  Commodore  Morris'; 
Pleasant  Party,  sixteen.  16^.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Dexter  came  to 
make  us  a  Visit.  Mr.  Greene,  Mrs.  C.  Amory,  Mrs.  Shaw 
&  Miss  Timmins  arrd.  20^.  Whig  Caucus;  poor  business. 
The  Boston  party  at  tea  with  Mrs.  Appleton.  21^.  Party 
of  some  hundred  &  fifty  at  our  house.  2yd.  Party  at  Mr. 
Corcoran's  for  our  Boston  friends — about  two  Hundred. 
24A  Dinner  of  twenty-two  for  Boston  friends;  very  pleas- 
ant, as  we  were  told.  2jt/l.  Pleasant  Party  at  the  French 
Minister's,  Dance,  29^.  Dined  at  the  Pres1'55,  a  Party  of 
twenty;  very  pleasant. 

MAY  8^.  Left  for  Boston,  found  Mrs.  Greene  much 
improved.  We  remained  in  Boston  &  its  vicinity 
until  24th  when  we  left  for  Washington.  2jt/l.  Much  pleased 
with  my  reception  by  friends  in  the  House  &  Commit- 
tee. Called  on  Lord  WharnclirTe,  Lady  and  Daughter. 
28^.  Called  on  the  Pres*  in  relation  to  Mr.  Lee's  appoint- 
ment. Wrote  him;  he  said  no  appointment  should  be  made 


1852]  Diary  155 

without  my  being  informed.  29^.  Dinner  party  for  Lord 
Wharncliffe,  etc.;  dined  at  5,  left  at  1 1  O'C. 

JUNE  $*K  A  Telegraph  that"  Cygnet"  sailed  at  1 2  O'C. ; 
recd  at  27  minutes  after  12  at  Office;  from  Boston  27™. 
8t/l.  At  Committee  &  House;  much  sameness  from  day 
to  day.  12^.  Much  talking  &  doing  in  the  President  mak- 
ing. 16^.  Mr.  Hooper  at  dinner  with  his  daughters;  Con- 
vention at  Baltimore  commenced.  20^.  Mr.  Choate  came 
up  from  Baltimore,  had  much  conversation  with  him. 
Went  to  see  the  Pres*  who  told  me  that  he  said  to  Mr. 
Webster  that  he  could  have  the  appointment  to  Court  St. 
James;  from  delicacy  he  did  not  offer  it  while  the  Nomi- 
nation was  pending;  said  I  might  say  so  to  Mr.  Choate. 
21*'.  We  have  this  morning  the  nomination  of  Gen1  Scott 
for  Pres*;  not  agreeable  to  me.  24A  The  weather  very 
cool  &  delightful  to  most;  I  am  rather  tired  of  Washing- 
ton. 29^.  Mr.  Clay  died  at  about  Eleven  O'C.  this  morn- 
ing; House  adjourned  on  the  announcement. 

JULY  i".  Funeral  Solemnities  for  Mr.  Clay  quite  im- 
posing. "Vanity  of  Vanities"!  $th.  No  House,  In- 
dependence Day.  Called  on  Mr.  Webster  &  Mrs.  W.; 
find  them  unsettled  in  their  views.  6t/l.  House  had  an 
afternoon  session  until  8  O'C.  12^.  At  House;  made  a 
speech  on  granting  the  means  to  fence  Custom  Houses, 
got  on  as  well  as  I  expected;  no  orator.  13^.  Left  with 
Mrs.  Appleton  &  Abby  for  Boston.  15^.  Dinner  for  family 
at  Club  House — 12  of  us  —  pd  $77.00.  17^.  Arrived  in 


156  William  Appleton  [1852 

Washington.  24A  Dinner  for  sixteen;  very  well  got  up, 
quite  satisfactory.  28th.  At  House:  River  &  Harbour  bill 
discussed.  29^.  Samuel  Lawrence,  Mr.  Morehead  &  Mr. 
Breckenridge  at  dinner.  Did  not  return  from  House  until 
near  8  o'clock,  &  went  to  Committee  at  9  O'C.  30^. 
House  finished  the  River  &  Harbour  bill. 

A  UGUST  2nd.  Mr.  Kennedy  came  to  live  with  me. 
jl\.  yd.  The  last  three  days  quite  cool,  winter  garments 
pleasant.  8t/l.  At  Mr.  Butler's  Church;  most  of  the  day 
taken  up  in  arranging  to  send  home  the  remains  of  Mr. 
Rantoul.  gt/l.  At  House.  Very  handsome  address  on  the 
announcement  of  the  death  of  Mr.  Rantoul  by  Mr.  Mann 
&  Sumner.  i8M.  Not  quite  well — stomach  out  of  order. 
19^.  Mrs.  Kennedy  came  to  stop  with  us.  20^.  At  House 
late;  rather  warm  &  tiresome;  want  of  order  in  the  House. 
Charles  has  returned  improved.  2JtA.  At  House  &  Com- 
mittee. I  had  a  dinner  party  for  Mr.  Ingersoll,  Prince,  Mr. 
Webster,  Crittenden,  Conrad,  Hall,  Gen.  Scott,  Dr.  Pyne, 
Mr.  McClellan,  Faulkner,  Mr.  Perly  of  Nova  Scotia,  Mr. 
Markoe  &  Kennedy.  29^,  Sunday.  At  Committee  from 
nine  to  six  on  conference  with  Committee  of  Senate;  quite 
ill  the  last  night  from  Indigestion.  30^.  At  House  &  Com- 
mittee until  nine  o'clock  when  we  adjourned  till  9,  Tues- 
day. 31^.  At  nine  went  to  the  House,  adjourned  at  twelve. 

SEPTEMBER  1*.  Quite  unwell  last  night  but  with 
much  exertion  arrived  in  New  York.  yd.  Arrived  in 
Boston  &  went  to  Brookline,  found  all  well.  9^.  Mrs. 


1852]  Diary  157 

Greene  taken  to  our  House  in  Brookline.  17^.  Dined 
with  Mr.  Thayer,  a  very  large  &  elegant  party.  2o//;.  Drs. 
Warren,  Jackson,  &  Adams  met  at  my  house  to  see  Mrs. 
Greene.  21^.  Went  to  the  City;  engaged  in  arranging  for 
a  dinner  for  Mr.  Thos  Baring,  M.P.  22w<  Nominated  for 
another  term  in  Congress.  I  accept,  feeling  I  may  decline 
a  year  hence,  but  shall  go  if  all  goes  well.  Pleasant  dinner 
at  Revere  House,  about  one  hundred  and  fifty  present. 
26^.  Attended  the  funeral  of  James  S.  Amory's  child,  the 
third  they  have  parted  with  within  eighteen  days. 

OCTOBER  2nd.  Removed  to  Boston.  4A  Our  Daugh- 
ter, Mrs.  Dexter,  presented  us  with  a  son;  she  suffered 
much.  $*&.  Mrs.  Dexter  better  than  we  feared  she  might  be. 
1I<*.  Attended  prayers  at  Chapel  at  9  A.M.;  very  doubt- 
ful in  my  mind  if  it  would  not  be  better  for  persons  to  Pray 
at  home.  2ov//.  Sale  City  Wharf  for  #411-,  full  value,  as 
I  think.  I  was  willing  to  pay  $400,000.  IInd.  We  hear 
Mr.  Webster  is  very  ill.  23^.  The  accounts  from  Mr. 
Webster  show  that  his  Hours  on  earth  will  be  few.  24^. 
We  were  awakened  by  the  firing  of  Minute  guns,  announ- 
cing the  death  of  Daniel  Webster — The  great  man  of  his 
time.  25^.  Meetings  of  all  classes  to  show  their  sympa- 
thy on  account  of  the  death  of  Mr.  Webster.  2jtA.  Went 
to  Faneuil  Hall  to  attend  meeting  on  account  of  the  death 
of  Mr.  Webster.  28^.  At  U.  S.  Court  Room;  Addresses 
from  Mr.  Choate  &  Loring.  29^.  Went  to  Marshfield, 
funeral  of  Mr.  Webster;  beautiful  day;  very  numerous 
collection  of  people. 


158  William  Appleton  [1852 

NOVEMBER  yd.  Engaged  in  making  preparation 
for  the  morrow.  \th.  Our  youngest  daughter  married 
to  Thos.  Jefferson  Coolidge.  We  are  quite  satisfied  with  the 
connection;  about  One  Hundred  persons  present.  Fine 
day.  9>th.  I  find  the  morning  lectures  quite  interesting.  I 
generally  go  at  8  ^2  O'C.  9^.  Yesterday  I  was  again  elected 
to  Congress  by  a  very  complimentary  vote.  \oth.  Engaged 
in  getting  subscription  for  Mrs.  Webster.  Went  to  see  Mrs. 
Greene.  12^.  Dined  at  Dr.  Mason  Warren's;  very  pleas- 
ant &  luxurious  dinner.  13^.  Our  daughter  Mrs.  Dexter's 
son  was  Christened  Gordon;  I  stood  Sponsor;  very  pretty 
party  of  her  friends  were  present.  vj*K  Dinner  at  Mr.  Jos. 
Coolidge's;  party  for  Hetty,  very  pleasant.  18^.  Went  to 
Providence  to  see  my  sisters,  Starrett,  Burnham  and  Stev- 
ens, after  seeing  Mary  Appleton  with  dear  George  in  the 
Cars  for  New  York  &  Savannah.  30^.  Very  large  Assem- 
blage in  respect  to  the  Memory  of  Mr.  Webster.  Called 
on  many  friends  to  take  leave. 

DECEMBER  yd.  Arrived  at  Washington.  Mrs.  A.  & 
Charles  our  party.  \th.  At  dinner  Recd  Telegraphic 
dispatch  informing  us  of  the  death  of  our  dear  Mary  Anne, 
our  eldest  daughter;  unexpected  at  last,  yet  long  looked 
for.  5^.  Left  with  Charles  for  Boston  after  going  to  church; 
we  slept  at  Philadelphia.  Left  for  home  from  New  York  on 
the  boat.  7^.  Found  family  all  quiet,  well,  but  sad.  Attended 
the  remains  of  our  first  dear  daughter  to  the  Tomb.  She 
suffered  much  for  more  than  four  years,  first  from  a  cold 


1852]  Diary  159 

which  produced  a  tumor.  In  June  last  it  was  intimated 
that  the  sea  air  might  restore  her.  I  had  the  Ship  "Cygnet" 
of  500  Tons  fitted.  She,  with  her  husband  and  Children 
went  in  her  to  the  Western  Islands,  Gibraltar  &  the  Medi- 
terranean, stopping  at  Malaga  &  Madeira  on  their  return. 
Absent  more  than  three  months;  she  returned  not  improved 
in  health.  She  was  taken  to  our  House  in  Boston,  thence 
to  our  house  in  Brookline  for  some  weeks,  &  then  was 
with  Mrs.  Lawrence  for  some  weeks;  finally  removed  to 
the  House  I  bought  of  Judge  Curtis  in  Nov.,  where  she 
died.  It  was  sad  to  part  with  her,  but  we  could  not  wish  her 
to  live  &  suffer  when  death  would  cause  her  to  be  happy. 
8//;.  Left  Boston  for  Washington;  found  Mrs.  Appleton 
quiet  &  resigned.  10^.  At  House;  pleasantly  recd  by  many. 
Went  to  see  Col.  Perkins  who  visits  this  place  on  business 
in  his  88th  year.  14A  At  Committee ;  attended  the  addresses 
in  Senate,  on  the  death  of  Mr.  Webster.  15^.  House  recd 
Speeches  from  several  members  in  honour  of  Mr.  Webster. 
17^.  Committee  in  the  morning  &  the  House;  had  the 
Committee  at  our  House  at  evening;  pleasant  party  — 
plain  supper.  25^,  Christmas.  The  day  wet  and  gloomy,  very 
dull  to  us,  yet  we  should  not  be  sad;  true,  we  have  lately 
followed  to  the  tomb  our  dear  daughter,  our  first.  So  strong 
was  her  faith  that  she  appeared  to  feel  that  she  was  only 
to  be  led  across  the  Stream,  and  be  welcomed  by  those  who 
had  gone  before.  This  was  no  sudden  conversion;  she  had 
been  a  most  constant  and  devoted  Christian  for  many  years. 
She  leaves  a  most  devoted  Husband,  and  two  lovely  chil- 
dren, many  relatives  &  friends  who  will  long  dwell  on  the 


160  William  Appleton  [1852 

purity  of  her  life.  We  have  the  consolation  of  knowing  all 
was  done  to  restore  her  that  was  deemed  expedient.  God 
did  not  so  order. 

1853 

JANUARY  l".  We  are  informed  of  the  death  of  our 
good  friend  Mr.  Amos  Lawrence.  The  past  year  has 
been  one  of  much  interest  and  great  variety :  two  Grand 
Children  Born,  one  daughter  Married  and  our  dear  Mary 
Anne  we  followed  to  her  tomb.  Charles  returned  to  us  from 
Europe  with  more  health  than  we  expected,  yet  we  are 
not  without  anxiety  on  his  account.  Dear  Frank  remains 
the  same;  Dr.  Bell  says  he  shall  not  give  up  hope  until  he 
knows  the  cause  of  his  malady.  Mrs.  Appleton,  Amory's 
wife,  with  her  son,  is  passing  the  winter  in  Savannah  on 
account  of  his  delicacy  of  health;  I  trust  the  dear  fellow 
may  be  spared  us,  he  is  all  in  all  to  the  Mother.  2nd.  At 
Communion  with  my  dear  Wife.  6t/l.  Mr.  Coolidge  and 
Hetty  arrived.  Charles  quite  laid  up.  8t/l.  The  Jackson 
statue  inaugurated.  Mr.  Gray  &  Mr.  Hall  from  London 
at  dinner.  11**.  A  more  perfect  day  cannot  be  imagined. 
24A  Dear  Hetty  &  Mr.  Coolidge  left  us;  their  visit  has 
been  very  delightful.  2jt/l.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Lawrence  &  their 
two  daughters  came  to  make  us  a  visit.  29^.  Mr.  &  Mrs. 
Abbott  Lawrence  arrived. 

FEBRUARY  \am  Rode  &  talked  much  with  Mr.  L. 
3r<  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Abbott  Lawrence  with  us  in  the 
evening.  \th.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Lawrence  in  the  evening.  6M.Mr. 


1853]  Diary  161 

&  Mrs.  Abbott  Lawrence  at  Evening.  &th.  Dined  with  Mr. 
Corcoran;  party  for  Pres*  Fillmore  &  family;  Cabinet 
Ministers  and  their  Ladies;  very  splendid  &  pleasant. 
\\th.  Dined  at  Mr.  Stockton's,  pleasant  party  of  twenty- 
two.  i8M.  Party  of  Gentn  to  dine.  19^.  Went  to  Committee 
at  nine;  in  House  until  seven.  Snowing  all  day.  24A  Went 
to  introduce  Gen1  Pierce  to  Pres*  Fillmore;  was  asked  to 
go  with  them  to  see  the  "Ericson"  Steamer,  but  declined. 
26^.  Went  to  hear  Mr.  Thackeray.  28'7/.  At  Committee 
from  9  to  1 1,  House  from  1 1  to  7  P.M.;  hard  work. 

MARCH  V*.  We  had  a  session  from  1 1  O'clock  until 
ten  at  night.  ofd.  Went  to  the  House  at  ten,  con- 
tinued in  session  until  the  next  day  at  12  O'C,  —  much 
engaged  on  Committees,  etc.  \th.  At  12  O'C,  House 
adjourned,  went  to  the  Senate  Chamber,  attended  the  in- 
auguration of  Pres*  Pierce;  returned  home  very  much 
fatigued.  Snow  storm.  $*K  Made  calls,  preparing  for  our 
return  to  those  we  most  love.  6^.  Many  persons  called  to 
take  leave  of  us.  7^.  Left  Washington  at  7  A.M.,  slept 
at  the  Girard  House,  PhiK  8t/l.  Arrived  at  St.  Nicholas 
House,  New  York,  splendid  establishment.  1 1^.  Very  glad 
to  be  with  our  family  &  friends.  20^.  At  St.  Paul's; 
much  gratified  by  Harriet's  renewing  her  baptismal  vows. 
27^.  Communion  Sunday  &  Easter;  our  dear  Harriet  went 
with  us  for  the  first  time  to  Communion.  I  daily  thank  God 
that  our  children  have  so  many  Virtues.  28^.  Harriet's  dear 
infant  is  very  ill.  31^.  Our  dear  Harriet's  infant  died  the 
last  evening  at  1 1  o'clock ;  a  lovely  child. 


162  William  Appleton  [1853 

A  PRIL  l".  In  the  afternoon  we  entombed  the  infant  of 
il  Mrs.  Dexter;  Services  at  St.  Paul's  by  Dr.  Stone;  our 
daughter  shew  much  strength  of  mind,  and  I  trust  &  doubt 
not  is  supported  by  the  Religion  she  professes.  2nd.  Beau- 
tiful day.  Find  Harriet  as  we  could  wish,  seeking  occupa- 
tion. 27^.  Our  dear  Harriet  with  her  Husband  left  us  for 
Europe.  29^.  William  &  wife,  with  their  daughter,  left  for 
Europe  via  New  York. 

MAY  3r<  Caucus  preparatory  to  Convention.1  7**.  At 
Convention.  gf/l.  Convention  meets  at  Music  Hall; 
nothing  interesting.  n«*  Met  Committee  of  Convention 
at  nine,  &  at  Convention  at  3  P.M.  16^.  Occupied  at  Store. 
California  mail  recd  with  accounts  from  our  Correspond- 
ents; at  Convention  at  3  P.M.  22*4  Meeting  Dwight  Co., 
not  pleased  with  the  result. 

JUNE  2nd.  At  Convention  as  usual,  Morning  &  After- 
noon; rather  tedious.  yd.  Convention  &  Committee 
take  up  my  whole  time  after  nine  A.M.;  I  do  not  believe 
much  good  or  otherwise  will  be  done.  5^.  At  St.  Stephen's 
Chapel,  found  it  well  filled  at  Communion;  some  fifty 
people  well  dressed,  but  plainly;  felt  much  pleasure  in  see- 
ing so  many  persons  receiving  religious  instruction  that 
might  have  been  precluded  but  for  this  establishment. 
8t/l.  Our  dear  Charles  left  us  for  Europe;  Mr.  Greene  in 
the  same  steamer.  Copley  and  Elizabeth  dined  with  us. 

1  Constitutional  Convention. 


1853]  Diary  163 

li/A.  Called  on  Govr  Jones  of  Tennessee.  \$th.  Removed 
to  Brookline.  Dined  at  Mr.  N.  Appleton's;  attended  Con- 
vention. i6M.  At  Convention,  a  very  good  speech  from  Mr. 
Choate.  19^.  Attended  Church1  for  the  first  time  in  Brook- 
line.  Dr.  Stone  preached  to  a  fair  congregation;  I  mean  the 
Church  was  pretty  well  filled;  they  will  find  difficulty  in 
supporting  him;  a  strong  man,  but  not  popular  with  the 
youth  or  calculated  to  build  a  Congregation.  I  have  been 
for  several  weeks  rather  dyspeptic,  changed  my  diet  but 
do  not  get  right,  it  affects  my  nervous  system  by  produc- 
ing anxiety  &  carefulness;  it  is  disease;  I  have  never  been 
more  apparently  free  from  cause  of  anxiety  than  at  present. 
I  am  admonished  to  put  my  house  in  order,  and  should  it 
please  Him  Who  gave  me  existence  to  call  me,  I  feel  that 
I  should  meet  the  summons  with  as  little  regret  as  at  any 
future  time.  26^.  Not  yet  well ;  my  feelings  are  strong  that 
I  have  done  my  work;  if  my  faith  was  greater  I  should 
be  quite  willing  to  leave.  I  have  never  felt  so  strongly  as 
within  a  few  days  the  desire  &  pleasing  anticipation  of 
meeting  my  dears:  Wm,  Amory  &  Mary  Anne. 

JULY  13^.  At  an  early  hour  was  apprised  by  a  note 
from  Mr.  N.  Appleton  of  the  decease  of  my  early  & 
constant  friend  and  Cousin,  the  Honble  Sam1  Appleton. 
He  possessed  a  strong  intellect,  a  kind  &  benevolent  dis- 
position; strikingly  the  artificer  of  his  own  fortune,  &  he 
laid  open  the  way  for  his  brothers  &  others  to  fortune.  We 
have  been  very  intimate  for  many  years ;  there  was  much 

1  St.  Paul's,  by  Upjohn. 


164  William  Appleton  [l%53 

mutual  confidence;  I  have  not  known  the  man  more  studi- 
ously intent  on  doing  right.  Naturally,  with  strong  feelings, 
&  at  a  time  in  his  life  irritable  &  overbearing,  which  he 
overcame  to  such  a  degree  that  those  who  knew  him  late 
in  life  would  be  led  to  suppose  he  was  void  of  those  pas- 
sions we  would  wish  to  correct.  In  early  life  he  was  of  very 
great  benefit  to  me  in  credit,  loaning  me  his  stocks,  etc.;  he 
was  more  than  a  brother  to  me,  I  feel  his  departure  much. 
14A  In  the  City  at  Convention  as  usual,  &  attending  to 
preparing  for  Mr.  Appleton's  funeral.  15^.  Funeral  of  our 
friend  was  from  the  Stone  Chapel;  full  church;  from  there 
we  went  &  deposited  the  body  at  Mount  Auburn ;  very 
affecting  to  think  we  shall  see  him  no  more.  16^.  Went 
to  the  late  residence  of  Mr.  S.  Appleton.  Will  read;  an  ap- 
pearance of  satisfaction.  Mr.  N.  Appleton,  Bowditch  & 
myself  are  Exrs.  19^.  At  Store  &  Convention.  We  left  for 
Saratoga,  where  we  remained  until  2nd  Aug1  when  we  left 
for  Lake  George;  on  the  5th  arrived  home;  all  well. 

AUGUST  9'A  Meeting  of  the  Hadley  Falls  Com- 
^  pany;  a  bad  Concern.  i8M.  Mrs.  Appleton  returned 
with  me  from  Lynn  to  Brookline  where  we  find  ourselves 
alone;  three  of  our  Children  are  in  Europe,  one  in  Bos- 
ton, one  in  Lynn.  i$th.  William,  wife  &  child  came  to  us 
at  Brookline;  we  were  rejoiced  to  have  them  with  us  after 
an  absence  of  some  four  months. 

SEPTEMBER  ?K  At  about  five  o'clock  P.M.  dear 
Hetty  was  mother  of  a  daughter  which  we  were  soon 


1853]  Diary  165 

apprised  of,  &  which  gave  us  great  pleasure.  17^.  En- 
gaged with  Mr.  Wiggin's  estate.  2lx/.  Arranging  for  the 
building  of  a  new  ship,  I  did  not  expect  such  an  event.1 
26th.  Much  engaged  with  Mr.  Wiggin,  I  trust  I  shall  find 
an  end  to  this  business.  28^.  Attended  Convention  at  Fitch- 
burg  to  nominate  a  candidate  for  Governor. 

OCTOBER  $*K  Attended  Convention  at  Trinity 
Church,  New  York ;  it  was  very  solemn  &  impres- 
sive. bth.  Left  for  Washington  at  evening.  7**.  Called  on 
Mrs.  Gadsby  &  President.  8/A.  Arranged  my  household 
business.  \oth.  Returned  to  New  York,  at  St.  Nicholas. 
1  \th.  Attended  Convention,  dined  at  Bishop  Wainwright's. 
15^.  Returned  to  Boston. 

NOVEMBER^.  Wentto  Mount  Vernon.  wK  Whig 
Caucus;  I  was  Vice-Pres*.  \lth.  Our  dear  Children 
came  to  us  late  this  evening;  Harriet  much  improved  in 
health  &  spirits.  13^.  At  church,  very  pleasant  to  have 
Mr.  &  Mrs.  Dexter  with  us.  14A  Engaged  at  the  office 
and  at  election;  much  pleased  by  the  success  of  the  Whigs. 
\§th.  Meeting  Directors  Providence  R.  R.  Much  rejoicing 
on  a/c  of  yesterday's  election.  29^.  This  day  I  left  to  go 
to  Washington.  For  the  second  time  I  have  been  elected 

1  Vessels  owned  in  whole  or  in  part  by  Mr.  Appleton :  'Triumphant,  Telegraph, 
Courier,  Minerva,  Roxanna,  Sally  Ann,  The  Brothers,  Triton,  Champion,  Rasse- 
las,  Harriet,  Mercury,  Jasper,  Eben  Preble,  Delhi,  Charlotte,  Mary  Ellen,  Loo 
Choo,  Probus,  Barnstable,  Coronado,  Horatio,  Cygnet,  Edith-Rose,  Nabob,  Orion, 
Milton,  Admittance,  Oxnard,  Hamlet,  Tasso,  Joshua  Bates,  Horsburgh,  Coursery 
Living  Age,  Egeria,  Magenta. 


166  William  Appleton  [1853 

to  the  Congress  of  the  United  States;  I  am  at  all  times, 
when  I  reflect,  surprised  to  find  myself  in  the  position  the 
public  give  me.  I  feel  much  the  want  of  an  early  educa- 
tion and  the  neglect  to  improve  the  opportunities  I  have 
had. 

DECEMBER  5*K  Opening  of  Congress;  elected 
Speaker  &  other  Officers  without  much  opposition. 
bth.  We  had  the  President's  Message;  well  recd;  non-com- 
mittal. He  made  us  a  visit  last  evening;  very  kind  &  gen- 
tlemanly. \oth.  Went  to  the  President's  with  Mr.  Edmunds, 
Curtis  &  Mr.  Dickinson;  at  the  office  of  the  Secretary  of 
the  Interior  in  relation  to  the  Court  House  for  the  U.  S. 
in  Boston.  \Vh.  At  House,  committees  announced;  I  am 
pleased  at  being  on  the  Committee  of  Ways  &  Means, 

yet  it  gives  much  labour.  25^,  Christmas.  Mr. with 

us;  he  much  troubled  on  account  of  his  son's  misconduct 
at  West  Point.  26^.  The  day  kept  as  a  festival;  offices  all 
closed.  27^.  At  House  the  death  of  Mr.  Campbell  of  Ten- 
nessee was  announced.  A  smart  discourse  by  our  Chaplain 
on  the  duty  of  rulers  was  given  on  occasion  of  the  funeral 
which  took  place  on  the  28th  at  the  House.  In  the  evening 
we  passed  an  hour  at  the  President's  with  Mrs.  Pierce  and 
Mrs.  Means.  (Splendid  Misery!)  29^.  At  Committee  room; 
no  quorum;  passed  most  of  the  day  seeing  what  could  be 

done  for  Mr.  .  opth.  Went  again  to  the  President's; 

he  sent  for  the  Secretary  of  War,  who  came  in  &  had  a 
long  talk  with  the  President ;  he  left,  I  was  called  in.  The 
President  said  he  did  not  like  to  interfere  but  would  recom- 


1854]  Diary  167 

mend  the  young  man  not  to  resign  but  be  tried  by  Court 

Martial;  so  I  decided  &  wrote  to  Geni  D.  and  Mr. 

&  sent  a  telegraphic  dispatch.  31".  Some  sleighs  are  out 
this  morning. 

1854 

JANUARY  Ist,  Sunday.  In  looking  from  the  windows 
of  our  Chamber  I  see  the  trees  most  gracefully  covered 
with  snow  attached  to  the  limbs  in  the  most  delicate  man- 
ner; the  quantity  fallen  is  some  four  inches,  which  is  quite 
large  for  this  region.  I  went  to  the  Communion  table  with 
more  than  usual  satisfaction;  I  feel  within  a  few  days  more 
warmth  of  heart,  perhaps  produced  by  the  season  we  com- 
memorate of  the  unspeakable  goodness  of  God.  2nd.  House 
not  in  session.  Made  many  calls  &  Mrs.  Appleton  had  some 
fifty  to  one  hundred  visitors;  being  the  custom  the  first  of 
the  year  for  the  gentmn  to  call  on  ladies.  5^.  Miss  Seaton 
at  dinner,  a  very  interesting  woman.  Mr.  Walley  made  his 
appearance,  I  presented  his  credentials.  Jth.  I  went  with 
Mr.  Walley  to  call  on  the  President,  Secretary  of  the 
Treas,  Attorney  Gen1  &  made  many  calls  with  Mrs.  Apple- 
ton.  ofh.  No  session  of  either  House,  anniversary  Battle  of 

New  Orleans.  \2th.  At  House  and  looking  after  Mr. 's 

concerns;  bad  business.  14A  No  House;  dinner  for  sixteen. 
17^.  At  the  meeting  of  Colonization  Society  I  determined 
to  pay  twenty-four  hundred  dollars  for  half  expense  of 
sending  eighty  negroes  to  Africa.  2oM.  Dined  at  the  Secy 
of  the  Treasury's,  with  a  large  Party  of  ladies  and  Gentmn. 
21".  Party  of  sixteen  at  dinner,  very  pleasant.  25^.  House 


168  William  Appleton  [1854 

adjourned  to  attend  Mr.  Bodisco's1  funeral;  large  As- 
semblage of  persons  Present.  28^.  Dined  at  Mr.  Everett's, 
large  and  pleasant  party  Ladies  and  Gentlemen. 

FEBRUARY  3^.  Went  with  Mrs.  Appleton  to  the 
President's.  gf/l.  At  House,  the  Deficiency  Bill  rejected. 
16^.  Dined  at  Mr.  Sartiges',  French  Minister.  2oM.  Most 
severe  snow  storm  I  have  ever  seen  in  Washington.  21''. 
With  much  difficulty  can  we  get  from  one  part  of  the  City 
to  another;  more  than  one  foot  of  snow  fallen.  22"<  House 
did  not  sit,  Washn's  B.  Day;  dined  with  Commodore  Shu- 
brick.  28^.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Dexter  arrived;  we  were  right  glad 
to  see  them. 

MARCH  2nd.  Dinner  at  President's,  about  thirty;  Mr. 
&  Mrs.  Dexter  of  the  party.  14A  Revd.  Mr.  Dex- 
ter called  with  a  Petition  signed  by  three  thousand  fifty 
Clergymen  of  New  England,  remonstrating  against  Ne- 
braska Bill  &  repeal  of  the  Missouri  Compromise,  which 
I  have  offered  in  the  House.  16^.  The  days  pass  with  very 
little  change.  I  go  to  the  House  &  to  Prayers  daily  at 
Mr.  Pyne's  church.  21".  We  had  the  Nebraska  Bill  in  the 
House;  I  think  it  will  not  become  a  Law.  27^.  At  House; 
there  was  a  sharp  debate  between  Messrs.  Cutting  &Breck- 
enridge.  28^.  Dined  at  Mr.  Riggs'  with  pleasant  party  of 
Ladies  &  gentlemen,  among  them  were  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Cut- 
ting. 29^.  At  House  much  said  of  a  duel  between  Mr. 
Cutting  &  Mr.  Breckenridge.  Dined  with  Comm.  Shubrick, 

1  Alexander  de  Bodisco,  Minister  from  Russia. 


1854]  Diary  169 

Mr.  &  Mrs.  Cutting  were  expected.  Mrs.  Lawrence  & 
Amory  arrd.30//5!.  All  uncertain  as  to  the  duel;  friends  said  to 
be  in  consultation.  31".  At  House  Mr.  Preston  announced 
the  settlement  of  the  difficulty  between  Mr.  B.  &  Mr.  C. 

A  PR  I L  4A  In  Committee  of  the  whole;  Bill,  Nebraskan, 
jlV  the  subject  discussed;  not  well  pleased,  our  Commit- 
tee has  very  narrow  vein.  1  \th.  At  House,  Nebraska  is  the 
great  object;  I  doubt  the  result,  yet  I  think  it  will  not  pass. 
Wh.  Dined  at  Mr.  Corcoran's,  Party  of  Gentn,  Committee 
District  of  Columbia.  13^.  Mr.  Lawrence  arrived;  he  & 
Sarah  dined  at  the  President's. 

MAY  4A  At  two  o'clock  was  Telegraphed  of  Frank's 
illness;  left  with  Mrs.  Appleton  at  5;  slept  at  PhiK 
bth.  Went  from  the  cars  directly  to  Somerville  to  see  our 
dear  Son.  We  found  him  very  weak  and  unable  to  converse 
much,  but  pleased  to  see  us.  On  the  following  days  he 
revived,  and  had  much  apparent  pleasure  in  the  visits  of 
his  Mother,  Sisters  &  Wife;  generally  his  mind  was  clear 
but  at  times  wandering,  perhaps  not  more  than  others  from 
weakness;  he  continued  in  this  state,  some  days  more  com- 
fortable than  at  others,  until  Sunday,  28th,  when  in  the 
morning  I  went  to  him  (having  slept  at  Dr.  Bell's  generally 
since  my  return  from  Washington),  asked  him  how  he  was; 
he  replied  that  he  had  not  had  as  comfortable  a  night  as 
usual;  asked  me  to  sit  by  him,  inquired  for  his  Mother, 
asked  if  I  was  going  to  Washington  again;  he  said,  "Stay 
by  us,  you  have  always  taken  care  of  us.  Take  care  of 


170  William  Appleton  [^54 

mother,  my  sisters  &  Wife."  He  said,  "It  is  Sunday,  you 
will  go  to  Church  &  Pray  for  us."  Returned  to  Boston, 
went  to  Church  &  was  soon  called  out,  being  informed 
that  my  son  was  much  changed.  Went  immediately  with 
Mrs.  Appleton  &  Mrs.  F.  H.  Appleton  to  Somerville.  We 
found  Frank  unable  to  speak,  not  suffering;  in  which  state 
he  continued  until  about  three  O'C,  when  he  expired 
without  a  Struggle.  Wm  was  with  us  during  the  last  hours 
of  his  brother.  We  have  great  cause  of  gratitude  that  he 
was  able  to  converse  with  us  and  that  his  mind  was  so  re- 
stored that  we  could  enjoy  his  society.  On  Wednesday  his 
funeral  took  place  at  St.  Paul's  Church  &  we  committed 
his  body  to  the  tomb  at  Mount  Auburn  beside  his  Grand- 
mother, his  brother  &  others.  We  remained  &  attended 
Church  with  our  family  on  the  4th  June;  and  the  follow- 
ing day  left  for  Washington. 

JUNE  12M.  Rather  disturbed  at  the  course  taken  as  to 
the  Tariff.  13^.  Quite  cool;  have  on  my  entire  winter 
clothing.  16^.  Attending  to  report  on  the  Tariff,  with  Ed- 
munds &  Robbins.  1  jtA.  Went  to  see  the  Secy  of  Treas- 
ury, I  think  we  shall  find  a  grand  opposition  to  Houston's 
Tariff.  18^.  Went  to  the  Chamber  of  House  Reps;  heard 
one  of  the  most  eloquent  discourses  I  ever  heard  from  Dr. 
Lippcombe  of  Montgomery,  Alabama.  26^.  At  House; 
took  up  the  bill  appropriating  ten  millions  for  Mexican 
Treaty.  2jt/l.  Discussing  Treaty;  I  do  not  like  political 
opposition  when  it  would  prevent  doing  what  is  essential 
for  the  Public  good.  28^.  The  ten  million  dollars  granted; 


1854]  Diary  171 

I  accidentally  was  out  of  the  House,  but  should  have  voted 
for  it;  our  delegation  voted  against  it.  30^.  Most  of  the  day- 
was  taken  up  as  to  when  we  shall  adjourn. 

JULY  Ist.  House  &  Senate  agreed  to  adjourn  4th  of 
August.  Went  with  President,  Mrs.  Pierce  &  Mrs.  Ap- 
pleton,  at  the  invitation  of  Lieut.  Maury,  to  the  observa- 
tory in  the  evening.  7**.  On  the  Civil  &  Diplomatic  Bill. 
8M.  At  House  as  usual;  very  little  doing.  Hot  weather  is 
the  talk.  12^.  Left  for  Boston  with  Mrs.  Appleton.  18^. 
Arrived  back  in  Washington.  25^.  Some  gentn  to  dine, — 
Repr8  from  South  Carolina  &  Mass.  26^.  At  House;  rather 
tired,  almost  ill.  28/yi.  At  House;  made  an  explanation  of  T. 
Sumner's  copyright;  very  well  received,  carried  the  object. 

A  UGUST  Ist.  Suffered  much  with  ague  in  my  face, 
Jl\  but  was  at  House.  2nd.  From  9  A.M.  until  10  P.M. 
at  House;  much  exhausted  when  I  got  home.  yd.  Passed 
day  &  night  at  the  House;  went  to  Mr.  Corcoran's  for 
dinner.  \th.  At  six  O'clock  House  adjourned  until  nine 
O'clock;  at  1 1  O'C.  agreed  to  extend  the  session  to  allow 
time  for  enrolling  bills,  etc.;  dined  at  Willard's.  5^.  Left 
Washington  and  arrived  at  St.  Nicholas,  New  York.  j*K 
Arrived  in  Brookline;  right  glad  to  be  at  home.  10^.  Look- 
ing into  Eastern  R.R.  Concerns.  1  \th.  Engaged  at  store  with 
letters  from  China.  \\th.  Gen1  Taylor  of  Ohio  was  at  din- 
ner. i6M-  State  Convention;  attended  in  the  morning.  18^. 
Went  to  Beverly  to  consult  with  Mr.  Franklin  Dexter  as 
to  my  will;  visited  Georgiana  &  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Silsbee;  dined 


172  William  Appleton  [1854 

with  Mrs.  Lawrence  in  Lynn;  went  to  Nahant  &  found 
many  People. 

SEPTEMBER  yd.  At  Dr.  Stone's  Church;  Mr.  J.  S.C. 
Greene  read  the  service  very  much  to  our  Satisfaction; 
I  was  truly  delighted  &  said  to  my  Wife,  "If  departed 
Spirits  look  down  on  us,  if  any  pleasure  could  be  added  to 
our  dear  departed  Mary  Anne,  it  would  be  in  seeing  that 
her  Copley  was  doing  a  work  that  would  benefit  others." 
12^.  Dinner  with  large  party  at  Revere  House,  dinner  to 
Mr.  Morgan,  going  to  London. 


o 


CTOBER  26^.  Nominated  for  Congress,  which  I 
decline,  thinking  I  had  better  retire. 


NOVEMBER  2nd.  Nominated  to  the  next  Congress; 
much  pleased  by  the  kindness  of  my  friends,  but  my 
belief  is  that  I  shall  be  most  fortunate  if  not  Elected.  13^. 
Election — voting  for  Gov.,  State  Officers,  Members  of 
Congress,  etc.;  the  Know  Nothings  unexpectedly  carried 
all  before  them.  After  fully  declining  to  be  a  Candidate, 
at  the  solicitation  of  my  friends,  I  accepted  the  nomination 
expecting  to  have  been  chosen,  but  I  am  beaten  by  Mr. 
Burlingame  who  opposed  me  two  years  since,  receiving 
about  fifteen  hundred  votes  (Free  Soilers);  he  now  recd 
six  thousand.  I  am  satisfied  that  I  was  right  in  standing, 
and  do  not  regret  not  being  Elected.  l\th.  We  dined  with 
our  brother  &  sisters1  in  Temple  Place.  25th.  Occupied  in 

1  Thomas  C,  Rebecca  and  Isabella  Amory. 


1855]  Diary  173 

getting  ready  for  Washington.  28^.  Sale  Eastern  Railroad 
Bonds  from  one  to  ten  years,  averaging  about  83  per  O, 
yielding  more  than  10  per  O.  Georgiana  left  for  Cincinnati. 
29^.  Left  for  Washington. 

DECEMBER  4'A.  Called  on  Pres*  &  Lady.  Much 
pleased  by  the  general  expressions  of  Whigs  &Demts 
at  my  not  being  returned  to  the  next  Congress.  I  am  quite 
sure  it  is  best  as  it  is;  I  could  not  have  stood  better  than 
at  Present.  $th.  At  the  House;  discussion  as  to  the  meeting 
of  our  Ministers  at  Ostend — useless  business,  merely  to 
annoy  the  Administration.  bth.  At  the  President's,  at  his  re- 
quest; he  feels  badly.  \2th.  Committee  &  House.  Useless 
discussion  on  the  Missouri  Compromise  &  Nebraska.  13^. 
At  House;  continued  the  discussion  at  evening.  Xmas.  A 
more  beautiful  morning  I  have  seldom  seen;  the  Sun  in 
all  its  brightness  and  Glory.  We  had  a  party  of  our  most 
intimate  acquaintances  at  dinner;  Mr.  Badger's  family  of 
North  Carolina,  Mr.  Crocker,  one  of  my  Colleagues,  and 
several  others.  28M.  Mrs.  Appleton,  Misses  Amory,  & 
myself  dined  at  the  President's — large  party  Ladies  & 
Gentn. 

1855 

JANUARY  VK  Bright  &  beautiful  morning;  we  attended 
prayers  at  Dr.  Pyne's;  then  Mrs.  Appleton  received  her 
friends;  about  an  Hundred  called,  mostly  members  of  Con- 
gress but  many  Citizens,  who  were  offered  Punch,  Wine 
&  Cake.  The  year  past  has  been  one  of  much  change  and 


174  William  Appleton  [1855 

disaster.  The  loss  of  life  by  accident  on  sea  &  land  is  un- 
precedented, while  Europe  is  scourged  by  a  most  fright- 
ful war.  Our  commercial  communities  have  suffered  from 
extending  their  business;  and  the  reduction  in  the  price 
of  stocks  is  unprecedented,  at  least  nothing  to  compare 
with  it  since  1837.  Rail  Road  Stocks  &  Bonds  have  fallen 
twenty  to  twenty-five  per  cent  &  Manufacturing  stocks 
very  largely.  I  have  pleasure  in  expending  freely  for  my 
own  wants,  for  those  of  her  who  is  entitled  to  the  same 
privilege,  and  for  my  children.  I  part  with  money  in  vari- 
ous ways  of  charity  but  much  like  to  do  it  in  my  own  way 
and  not  to  be  dictated  to  or  even  asked,  but  in  a  general 
way,  to  give  with  others.  I  expect  and  advise  my  partners 
to  pursue  a  course  in  business,  expecting  purchases  to  be 
very  limited  and  consumption  apparently  so.  Money  will 
be  dear  &  much  complaint.  Cotton  will  be  low,  bread- 
stuffs  high;  the  poorer  classes  must  suffer.  yd.  Dined  with 
Col.  Preston,  pleasant  party.  Some  anxiety  for  Mrs.  Law- 
rence; Susan,  a  dear  Child  to  me,  is  ill.  (yth.  Went  with 
Committee  of  Ways  &  Means  to  Navy  Yard;  dined  with 
Mr.  Hulsemann,  Austrian  Minister.  Had  letter  from  Wm, 
Charles  not  quite  well;  I  am  rather  anxious,  but  have  not 
said  so  to  Mrs.  Appleton.  2ord.  At  House;  French  Spoli- 
ation bill  up;  dined  with  Secy  Navy,  Mr.  Dobbin.  25^. 
Discussion  French  Indemnity  bill  continues.  26^.  Meet- 
ing Committee  as  to  Court  Houses.  Mrs.  Lawrence  arrd. 
27^.  Passed  French  Indemnity  bill;  vote  lioto  76.  31*'. 
At  House;  late,  on  Territorial  bills. 


1855]  Diary  175 

FEBRUARY  1".  Party  at  Mr.  Corcoran's;  went  with 
Mrs.  L.  2nd.  At  President's  with  Mrs.  Lawrence,  very 
pleasant.  ofd.  Dinner  party  of  some  eighteen,  all  went  off 
well.  6M.  Texas  Bill  up,  late  at  House.  Tariff  Meeting. 
jfA.  Took  up  question  of  going  into  the  tariff,  104  for,  97 
against — not  a  working  majority.  10^.  Pleasant  but  cold 
party  at  dinner  of  nineteen.  12^.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Lawrence 
left  us  for  Boston;  we  have  enjoyed  their  visit  much.  \yK 
Engaged  with  Bill  for  the  Collins'  Steamers.  17^.  We  have 
the  President's  veto  of  the  French  Spoliation  bill.  24A 
The  House  occupied  on  the  Tariff  finally  passed  Hous- 
ton's bill. 

MARCH  yd.  At  Committee  &  House  from  nine 
A.M.  until  dinner.  \th.  Returned  last  evening  to 
House  and  remained  until  1 2  o'clock  this  day,  thus  closing 
my  Congressional  labours,  having  passed  four  sessions  of 
Congress  from  1851  to  the  present  time  in  this  City.  Made 
many  pleasant  acquaintances  &  I  trust  some  friends  and 
no  enemies;  not  an  unkind  word  has  passed  between 
myself  and  any  person  connected  with  the  Government 
during  the  time.  We  have  enjoyed  society  much,  and  are 
grateful  for  many  attentions;  much,  very  much  better  has 
passed  the  time  than  I  expected.  $th.  Called  at  the  Presi- 
dent's &  at  several  other  places.  7^.  Left  Washington. 
11^,  New  York.  At  Trinity  Church  in  the  Morning — 
Bill  Pool's  funeral  procession  passed  at  3  P.M. ;  Ridiculous 
for  a  Prize  Fighter!  24A  Received  a  kind  letter  from  more 


176  William  Appleton  [1855 

than  an  Hundred  of  my  constituents  asking  me  to  name 
a  day  to  meet  them  at  dinner.  31^.  The  Correspondence 
offering  me  a  dinner  is  published,  very  gratifying  to  me. 

A  PRIL  "]th.  Went  to  Chelsea  to  Appraise  Marine  Hos- 
JlV.  pital.  1  \th.  Mrs.  Appleton  had  a  collection  of  some 
seventy  Children  &  a  dance,  at  evening.  \2th.  Dined  with 
Charles  G.  Loring,  party  in  compliment  to  me,  very  pleas- 
ant persons.  20th.  Dined  with  Mr.  Joseph  Coolidge,  pleas- 
ant party  of  fourteen.  2$tk,  Spring  is  fairly  showing  its 
verdure.  29^.  Some  snow. 

MAY  $th.  Made  some  calls,  among  them  on  President 
Fillmore.  iyd.  Met  the  Superintendent  of  the  In- 
sane Hospital  at  the  Gen'l  Hospital  &  at  Somerville;  Dr. 
Bell  does  not  look  right,  I  fear  he  is  too  much  interested 
in  Spiritual  Rappings.  28^.  Passed  the  day  pleasantly  at- 
tending to  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Becket,  daughter  of  Lord  Lynd- 
hurst.  29^.  Dined  with  Mr.  Chas.  Amory,  party  of  twenty- 
four,  very  Elegant,  equal  to  any  I  have  seen.  30^.  Charles 
arrived  at  Brookline  at  midnight. 

JUNE  20^.  Went  to  the  City,  preparatory  to  a  journey 
with  Mrs.  Appleton.  2Vf.  Left  at  3^  P.M.  for  Saratoga; 
Mr.  &  Mrs.  Higginson,  Mr.  Inches,  fellow  travellers.  2$th. 
We  find  a  pleasant  party  from  Salem,  consisting  of  Mrs. 
F.  &  George  Peabody,  Mr.  Endicott  &  son,  Mrs.  Rogers 
&  several  acquaintances  from  New  York  &  Charleston. 
June  2&h  to 


1855]  Diary  177 

JULY  3r<  Mrs.  Appleton  &  myself  are  taking  the 
waters  freely  &  with  pleasant  effect.  On  the  evening 
of  3rd,  while  standing  on  the  piazza  at  the  U.  S.  Hotel,  I 
was  struck  by  a  rocket,  accidentally  sent,  much  bruised 
in  my  thigh,  &  Lower  part  of  my  body;  applied  ice  and 
was  able  to  leave  my  bed  on  the  2nd  day.  \th.  Noisy  time; 
mostly  in  bed  but  had  many  kind  callers.  $*K  Getting 
about  with  difficulty,  quite  lame.  6t/l.  Left  for  Boston,  slept 
at  Bellows  Falls.  16^.  Some  inconvenience  from  my  late 
accident;  Dr.  Warren  says  it  will  soon  pass  off.  19^.  Party 
of  young  Ladies  &  Gentn  in  the  evening,  Charles'  ac- 
quaintances; rather  gay,  but  pleasant. 

AUGUST  18^.  Left  Nahant  after  a  sojourn  of  ten 
l  days.  I  find  my  friend  Abbott  Lawrence  departed 
this  morning  at  eleven  o'clock.  20^.  Went  with  William 
&  Charles  to  Boston;  attended  a  meeting  at  Faneuil  Hall, 
to  take  measures  to  show  our  respect  to  Mr.  Lawrence; 
well  attended  &  much  interest  shown.  Mr.  Everett  &  Mr. 
Winthrop  made  very  appropriate  remarks;  the  Preamble 
&  Resolutions  by  Mr.  Nathan  Appleton  excellent.  2lJ/. 
Called  on  Mrs.  Lawrence;  she  spoke  of  the  love  her  hus- 
band had  for  me.  She  bears  her  affliction  with  much  firm- 
ness. 22«<  Attended  the  funeral  of  my  late  and  valued  friend 
Lawrence,  I  was  one  of  the  Pall  Bearers;  the  Church 
crowded  &  a  large  number  went  to  Mount  Auburn  where 
there  was  a  third  Service;  first,  at  the  House,  second,  at 
the  Church,  third,  at  the  grave.  Mr.  Lawrence  was  a  wise, 


178  William  Appleton  [1855 

a  good,  a  shrewd,  and  the  most  fortunate  of  men.  God  gave 
him  an  understanding  mind,  in  nothing  so  great  as  we  see 
in  others,  but  a  combination  of  desirable  qualifications; 
the  appearance,  the  manner,  the  voice,  the  smile  were  all 
attractive.  He  was  a  good  judge  of  character,  seldom  mis- 
taken. He  employed  &  confided  in  none  of  doubtful  ca- 
pacity; he  spoke  &  acted  at  the  right  time;  he  was  open- 
handed  &  hearted,  but  all  that  he  parted  with  was  at  the 
right  moment.  He  encouraged  others  by  his  example  & 
he  had  the  full  credit  for  his  liberality;  others  gone  before 
him  &  some  living,  have  distributed  as  much  as  Mr.  Law- 
rence during  life,  but  none  gone  &  probably  none  who 
follow  in  this  generation  will  have  so  much  publick  sym- 
pathy as  Mr.  Lawrence;  he  has  done  much  for  the  com- 
munity; he  leaves  a  very  strong  mark.  A  small  man  com- 
pared to  Webster,  but  he  has  done  much  more  for  the  good 
of  his  fellow-man,  in  my  opinion.  He  was  strictly  just  and 
liberal;  none  knew  him  better  than  I  did,  few  loved  him 
more ;  we  were  confidentially  intimate  for  many  years.  On 
my  return  from  Mount  Auburn,  found  Charles  quite  ill; 
we  fear  he  will  have  a  rheumatic  fever  or  dysentery.  Sent 
for  Dr.  Warren,  who  looked  that  he  feared  he  would  be 
quite  ill.  lofd.  Charles  had  a  very  painful  night;  I  was  with 
him  until  Morning.  I  went  to  the  City,  brought  out  Dr. 
Saml  A.  Green,  to  remain  with  him;  Dr.  Warren  directs 
active  remedies.  24A  They  give  him  laudanum,  Physick, 
Blisters,  leeches  and  poultices.  27^.  Charles  continues  to 
give  us  hopes  he  will  throw  off  his  disease. 


:•• 


1855]  Diary  179 

SEPTEMBER  13**.  Mr.  Charles  Sumner  &  Secretary 
Cramer,  Russian  Embassy,  &  Lady  came  to  see  us. 
25th.  Charles  went  to  Groton  to  visit  Mr.  Green. 

OCTOBER  2nd.  Engaged  in  getting  the  city  House 
in  order.  8t/l.  Called  with  Mrs.  Appleton  on  the 
Bride,  Mrs.  John  E.  Thayer.  10^.  Removed  to  Boston;  I 
feel  as  if  there  was  more  trouble  than  satisfaction  in  two 
establishments.  1  \th.  Quite  occupied  in  getting  our  House 
in  order.  19^.  Went  with  William  to  Mount  Vernon  and 
found  all  well ;  I  rejoice  I  have  the  power  to  add  so  much 
to  the  comfort  of  those  I  love.  22«<  Went  to  see  the 
famous  Rachel,  the  French  Tragedienne.  2yd.  Went  to 
the  Agricultural  Exhibition,  very  good  show,  —  Mary  & 
George  with  us.  25^.  Military  show  on  the  Common.  City 
is  full  of  people  attending  the  Agricultural  Exhibition. 
The  Club  met  at  my  house,  Mr.  Granger  &  Judge  Eus- 
tis  of  the  party,  &  Mr.  Thayer.  27th.  This  week  one  of 
much  excitement,  but  considered  successful.  29^.  Went 
to  sit  for  my  Pourtrait  at  the  request  of  the  worshippers 
of  St.  Stephen's  Chapel.  31^.  Went  with  my  Wife  and 
William  to  Salem  to  visit  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Saltonstall.1 

NOVEMBER  6"*.  State  Election ;  the  City  full  of  ac- 
tivity. jtA.  The  result  of  the  election  turns  in  favour 
of  the  Know  Nothings.  16^.  I  cannot  realize  that  I  am 
almost  three  score  &  ten:  my  health  good,  my  business 

1  Georgiana,  formerly  Mrs.  F.  H.  Appleton,  now  Mrs.  Henry  Saltonstall. 


180  William  Appleton  [1855 

faculties  not  diminished  as  far  as  I  can  observe,  and  from 
what  my  friends  say  I  fancy  they  think  so:  my  memory 
is  not  what  it  was.  I  know  it  to  be  my  duty  to  put  my 
House  in  order;  my  days  are  numbered  and  few.  I  have 
my  temporal  affairs  in  such  state  that  I  think  they  will  be 
understood.  2iJ/.  Our  daughter  Mrs.  Lawrence  delivered 
of  a  daughter.  25^.  Went  to  see  Mrs.  Lawrence ;  found  her 
quite  comfortable  with  a  fine  child. 

DECEMBER  IX  Mr.  Haskell  at  dinner;  I  think  him 
a  sensible  man.  bth.  Attended  a  sale  of  Land  at  Law- 
rence ;  a  magnificent  place  for  a  Manufacturing  City.  Com- 
menced with  much  zeal  &  by  men  of  capital  &  intelli- 
gence, but  on  a  large  scale;  time  may  bring  it  up,  but  at 
present  it  looks  as  if  years  would  pass  before  any  income 
will  be  received  from  the  Stocks  in  the  Essex  Company. 
I  doubt  if  the  Machine  Shop,  costing  seven  hundred  & 
fifty  thousand  dollars,  is  worth  anything.  \\th.  Charles  had 
a  party  of  twenty  of  his  young  friends  at  a  six  O'clock 
dinner;  all  went  off  pleasantly,  Mrs.  Appleton  &  myself 
at  the  table.  22w<  Charles  informed  his  Mother  and  my- 
self of  his  engagement  to  Miss  Mason;  I  understand  she 
is  a  pleasant,  amiable  woman.  I  am  glad  to  have  him  get 
engaged,  as  I  think  it  safer  for  him  so  to  do.  Xmas.  We 
had  our  children  &  most  of  our  grandchildren  at  dinner 
&  some  in  addition  in  the  evening.  The  day  we  celebrate 
as  the  one  of  the  most  of  all  interesting  to  the  race  of 
man;  it  beyond  question  is  so;  the  religion  of  Jesus  Christ 
has  done  more  for  the  temporal  wants  of  man  than  all 


1856]  Diary  181 

other  religions,  and  to  us  who  believe,  we  would  make  no 
comparison  between  the  temporal  &  the  eternal  benefits. 
Would  to  God  my  faith  was  brighter;  I  find  at  times  I  am 
unhappy  by  striving  to  know  what  was  not  intended  to  be 
communicated;  Nicodemus  like,  I  say,  "How  can  these 
things  be?"  The  last  year  we  have  had  Blessings  not  only 
far  beyond  our  deserts,  but  greater  than  usual;  so  much 
so  that  I  have  thought  of  a  remark  of  my  Good  Mother: 
"When  we  have  much  given  us,  We  should  be  on  our 
guard  lest  we  become  proud  and  require  chastisement." 
29^.  Dined  at  Judge  Warren's,  a  pleasant  party;  salt  fish 
dinner. 

1856 

JANUARY  \st.  The  last  year  closed  my  sojourn  in 
Washington.  I  am  satisfied  it  was  better  I  should  not 
longer  continue  in  Congress.  I  feel  that  I  was  of  some  value 
among  the  many  in  Congress  but  my  usefulness  was  much 
overrated  there,  and  among  my  constituents.  Our  sons  who 
were  absent  a  year  since,  have  returned  well;  we  had  much 
anxiety  for  them  while  they  were  with  their  sick  friend  in 
Damascus.  I  truly  feel  that  it  is  not  important  that  I  should 
increase  my  property  which  at  a  moderate  valuation  is 
worth  fifteen  hundred  thousand  dollars,  but  I  am  not  likely 
so  to  do;  as  expenses  of  my  own  House,  my  children's  & 
Mrs.  Apple  ton's  &  my  relatives,  with  such  charities  as  I 
have  pleasure  in  bestowing  will  take  the  ordinary  income 
of  that  sum.  It  is  my  intention  to  withdraw  wholly  or  nearly 
so  from  commerce  the  coming  year.  yd.  It  is  good  sleigh- 


182  William  Appleton  [1856 

ing;  rode  to  Brookline  with  Wm;  pleased  to  see  Mrs.  Law- 
rence's children  enjoy  the  Country  life.  bth.  Our  streets 
filled  with  snow,  not  a  Carriage  out  at  ten  o'clock.  20^. 
Went  to  Brookline  to  the  Christening  of  our  dear  Sarah's 
sixth  child  named  Hetty  Sullivan.  20fd.  Mr.  Toombs  came 
to  stay  with  us;  he  is  to  deliver  a  lecture  on  Slavery.  24A 
Went  to  Mr.  Toombs'  lecture,  well  received.  25^.  Visited 
Legislature,  Govr  &c.  with  Mr.  Toombs;  dined  with  Mr. 
Everett  at  Mr.  Hooper's  with  Mr.  Toombs,  pleasant  din- 
ing party. 

FEBRUARY  l*.  At  a  large  party  at  Mrs.  Greene's; 
very  handsome.  $th.  There  was  a  meeting  of  the  Law- 
rence Machine  Co.,  rather  a  bad  concern.  ioM.  Mr. Greene 
preached  at  St.  Paul's  Church,  a  good  sermon  &  well  de- 
livered; his  mother  &  Miss  Greene  went  with  me.  \lth. 
Meeting  in  relation  to  Rail  Road  fares;  getting  out  my 
pamphlet.  16^.  We  have  accounts  of  the  engagement  of 
our  dear  Mary,  wife  of  our  late  son  Amory;  I  am  sorry;  I 
fear  she  is  making  a  sad  mistake.  2 1 st.  Went  to  Nashua  with 
James  &  William  Amory:  I  don't  like  the  looks  of  things 
at  the  Jackson  Co.  i\th.  Went  to  Waltham  to  attend  the 
ordination  of  my  Son-in-law  Mr.  Greene,  as  a  Priest.  I  was 
much  interested  &  affected  by  the  services;  he  is  a  very 
good  Man;  he  was  a  good  Husband  to  our  daughter. 

MARCH  14A  Wm  returned  from  Cuba.  25'*   Our 
son  Charles  Hook  married  to  Miss  Isabella  Mason 
at  Trinity  Church,  which  was  crowded  with  Spectators; 


1856]  Diary  183 

she  reed  her  friends  at  Mr.  David  Sears',  a  very  large  num- 
ber of  persons.  The  connection  is  pleasing  to  us;  we  think 
her  a  good  woman;  they  passed  the  night  at  our  House, 
&  left  Wednesday  morning  for  New  York.  26^.  After 
seeing  our  children  to  the  Cars,  I  went  to  my  place  of 
business. 

/1PRIL  1st.  We  hear  of  the  arrival  of  Charles  at  Savan- 
£\>  nah.  14A  Engaged  in  selling  the  Gore  Place  at  Wal- 
tham  for  Miss  Greene;  went  to  see  the  place  with  Mr. 
Walker.  19^.  Wrote  a  letter  to  Bishop  Eastburn  in  relation 
to  his  declining  to  administer  the  rite  of  Confirmation  at 
the  Church  of  the  Advent.  When  he  came  to  this  diocese 
there  was  general  desire  to  receive  him  kindly  &  aid  him 
in  his  duties;  he  soon  shew  an  unwillingness  or  incompe- 
tency to  meet  others  with  liberality  of  Spirit;  he  became 
severed  from  many  who  could  be  most  useful  to  him  &  the 
Church.  He  has  had  his  own  way  with  much  opposition; 
there  is  great  doubt  in  my  mind  if  the  present  difficulty 
will  not  lead  to  much  trouble.  28^.  Meeting  of  Standing 
Committee  for  some  action  in  relation  to  the  Bishop  &  the 
Church  of  the  Advent.  I  do  not  fully  agree  with  the  Clergy, 
or  a  majority  of  them.  The  Bishop  is  not  wise,  but  I  think 
we  should  make  the  best  of  him. 

MAY  \th.  We  find  our  friend  Dr.  Warren  died  this 
morning  at  three  o'clock.  We  have  been  very  inti- 
mate for  forty  years;  he,  our  family  Physician,  &  for  most 
of  the  time  I  have  had  exclusive  charge  of  his  property, 


184  William  Appleton  [1856 

&  no  part  of  my  business  transactions  am  I  better  satisfied 
with.  He  leaves  his  family  more  than  four  Hundred  thou- 
sand dollars,  and  not  a  bad  piece  of  Property  amongst  it. 
He  was  as  attentive  to  my  family  as  I  was  to  his  inter- 
est; neither  ever  made  a  charge  for  services.  He  was  a 
man  of  strong  mind,  strong  prejudices,  true  to  his  friends, 
but  had  not  many.  A  true  follower  of  Christ;  at  times 
more  &  less  zeal;  many,  many  good  points  of  Character. 
bth.  Most  of  the  morning  at  the  Residence  of  Dr.  Warren 
arranging  for  the  morrow.  j*K  Funeral  services  of  Dr. 
Warren  at  St.  Paul's  Church;  very  large  attendance,  all 
with  much  order  &  solemnity.  8/j*.  Engaged  in  arrang- 
ing Dr.  Warren's  papers;  some  time  at  the  House  &  had 
much  talk  with  Dr.  Jackson;  I  hope  they  will  not  have 
his  Bones  made  into  a  skeleton  and  put  in  the  Medical 
College  as  he  requested.  14A  We,  Mrs.  A.  &  myself,  left 
for  a  journey.  l6M.  Arrived  at  Washington,  pleasantly  re- 
ceived by  Mr.  &  Miss  Corcoran.  \~]th.  Called  at  President's; 
went  with  a  party  to  Mount  Vernon;  dined  at  a  house 
some  ten  Miles  further  down  the  river;  very  fine,  pleasant 
day.  19^.  Went  to  the  House  of  Reps,  very  pleasantly 
Recd,  some  half  hundred  old  members  came  to  take  me 
by  the  hand.  Went  to  the  Senate,  heard  Mr.  Sumner  speak, 
very  unfortunate  in  his  remarks,  very  severe  on  mem- 
bers of  the  Senate  generally,  &  particularly  on  some.  2o/y*. 
Dined  at  the  President's,  a  small  party  made  for  us;  at  Mrs. 
Hill's  in  the  evening.  22"<  Left  Washington  much  grati- 
fied by  our  visit,  particularly  by  the  kindness  of  Mr.  C. 


1856]  Diary  185 

JUNE  9^.  At  the  Probate  Court;  I  do  not  like  the  idea 
of  being  Exr  on  Dr.  Warren's  Estate,  I  fear  trouble, 
but  I  think  it  due  to  his  wish.  10th.  Went  with  Mrs.  Apple- 
ton  and  Charles  &  his  wife  to  Boston;  examined  Mr.  Tem- 
pleman  Coolidge's  house  &  the  One  in  Walnut  Street, 
price  the  same ;  Charles  &  wife  prefer  the  latter.  2 1 st.  Bought 
Mr.  Hooper's  House  with  all  the  furniture  of  his  in  it, 
for  thirty  thousand  dollars  to  be  paid  without  Int.  on  1st 
Jan.  next.  27th.  Club  dinner  at  Mr.  Motley's  at  Dedham. 

JULY  \th.  Went  to  Waltham;  violent  shower  of  rain  & 
hail,  as  I  returned;  came  very  nigh  being  run  against 
by  the  train  on  the  Worcester  Rail  Road  at  the  crossing  at 
Newton  Centre ;  the  rain  &  wind  prevented  the  man  being 
out  with  the  flag  &  my  hearing  the  whistle ;  I  was  quite  near 
the  engine  when  it  passed.  My  time  has  not  come;  there 
is  more  for  me  to  do  on  earth;  God  give  me  strength  & 
grace  to  finish  my  days  for  the  benefit  of  my  fellow  Men. 
$th.  Went  to  the  City  and  called  to  see  Dr.  Paulding, 
who  was  kind  to  my  Sons  in  Damascus.  I  gave  One  Hun- 
dred dollars  to  his  infant  child  born  on  the  passage  in  the 
Steamer  lately  arrived.  bth.  Detained  from  Church  by  a 
slight  accident;  in  returning  from  Boston  yesterday  the 
Horse  took  fright  &  the  seat  of  the  wagon  fell  on  my 
ancle.  25^.  Got  bit  by  a  dog  at  the  Stable  of  the  late  Dr. 
Warren.  I  was  bit  after  turning  from  the  dog,  which  was 
tied  with  a  long  Rope;  his  bite  was  through  my  coat, 
Pants,  &  drawers.  Within  the  last  month  I  have  three 


186  William  Appleton  [1856 

times  been  admonished  that  life  was  uncertain  &  while  in 
health,  liable  to  be  suddenly  called.  26^.  Mrs.  A.  &  myself 
alone;  I  brought  home  the  Life  or  Memoirs  of  Captain 
Vickers,  late  in  the  English  service;  he  was  killed  at  the 
Crimea.  I  am  much  interested  in  it  &  hardly  laid  it  down 
until  I  read  it  through;  he  died  at  about  thirty-five,  gay 
&  dissipated  until  the  last  few  years  of  his  life  when  he 
became  one  of  the  most  ardent  of  Christians;  his  faith  such 
as  one  admires  not  without  astonishment.  I  feel  I  am  a 
better  man  for  reading  his  Life.  31^.  Left  for  a  visit  to  our 
Children  at  Lynn,  dined  at  Mr.  Lawrence's;  found  the 
children  quite  ill  from  Scarlet  fever  &  its  effects;  took  up 
our  lodgings  at  Mr.  Dexter's. 

AUGUST  Ist.  Mrs.  Lawrence's  eldest  daughter  quite 
l  ill,  the  other  children  complaining.  3r<  Little  Susan 
quite  ill,  Mamie  in  a  critical  state.  \th.  Drs.  Jeffries  & 
Lyman  visited  Mary  Ann  Lawrence  in  consultation;  they 
deem  her  case  doubtful  but  not  desperate.  \oth.  Mrs.  L.'s 
family  continue  to  improve.  Took  a  walk  with  Revd 
Charles  Mason.  I  feel  &  have  felt  the  last  week  a  Peace 
of  mind  valuable  above  price.  My  feelings  of  Peace  are 
produced  by  a  trust  in  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  that  He 
came  to  save  sinners,  that  in  believing  in  Him  we  receive 
the  Spirit  which  dispels  evil  thoughts  &  fills  us  with  a 
desire  to  do  His  will.  13^.  Went  with  Mr.  N.  Appleton 
and  dined  at  Mr.  C.  G.  Loring's,  small  party;  called  at 
Mr.  Coolidge's;  did  not  go  in  on  a/c  of  scarlet  fever  at 
Mrs.  L's.  \&K  Went  to  Boston  to  meet  with  some  gentle- 


1856]  Diary  187 

men  in  relation  to  whom  we  should  support  for  President; 
returned  to  Lynn.  23K  Returned  to  Brookline.  Harriet 
&  Mr.  Dexter  were  very  much  disposed  to  make  our 
time  pass  pleasantly.  opth.  Charles  &  Isabella  returned 
from  Lynn  to  pass  the  month  Sept.  with  us.  Mr.  Mason 
&  his  two  sons  dined  with  us.  31".  That  I  should  have 
been  protected  even  to  give  Religion  a  thought  —  after 
the  neglect  the  most  of  my  life — shows  the  continued 
operation  of  the  blessed  Spirit.  When  I  go  back  to  Child- 
hood, separated  soon  after  the  death  of  my  Father  at  less 
than  nine  years  of  Age;  separated  from  the  best  of  mothers, 
being  sent  to  school  &  then  placed  in  a  store  under  the 
guidance  of  those  who  professed  no  religion,  in  a  place 
where  there  was  more  vice  &  less  refinement  than  any  I 
have  known  in  later  life;  removing  to  Boston  at  twenty 
years  of  age  with  the  strongest  desire  for  the  accumulation 
of  Wealth,  flattered  for  my  sagacity,  successful  in  my  en- 
terprises, almost  unparalleled  in  my  success  in  laying  the 
foundation  of  the  fortune  I  possess.  That  I  have  not  been 
destroyed  by  the  desire  to  get  money  for  the  sake  of  pos- 
session, that  I  did  not  become  an  intemperate  man  from 
the  temptation  while  living  in  Temple,  that  with  the  sin- 
fulness of  my  natural  ungoverned  passions,  that  I  have 
not  disgraced  myself  in  the  eyes  of  the  world  as  I  have  in 
my  own  estimation  &  in  the  eye  of  God,  is  Wonderful 
to  my  view.  But  what  am  I  ?  Full  of  the  passions;  a  day 
does  not  pass  but  I  have  to  regret  the  loss  of  temper,  an 
envious  thought,  or  the  want  of  an  humble  spirit. 


188  William  Appleton  [1856 

SEPTEMBER  ydm  State  Convention  met  at  Tremont 
Temple.  Whig  meeting;  Mr.Winthrop  &  others  made 
good  Speeches.  5^.  Mary  &  George  dined  with  us;  he  is 
very  bright  &  pleasant,  but  very  little  strength  of  Consti- 
tution. 17^.  A  grand  &  beautiful  assemblage  on  account 
of  the  exhibition  of  the  Statue  of  Franklin;  fine  day; 
services  very  acceptable.  22"^.  Went  to  the  City  and  saw 
Mrs.  Coolidge,  appeared  as  well  as  for  some  time;  she  was 
confined  at  evening,  giving  us  our  fifteenth  Grand  Child, 
a  daughter.  29^.  Left  Boston  with  my  Wife,  Mr.  J.  S.  & 
Mrs.  Amory,  Mrs.  Greene  &  Miss  Isabella  Amory  for 
PhiR  My  time  was  pleasantly  occupied  in  the  Conven- 
tion and  religious  exercises  and  Social  parties  until  Oc- 
tober 21st  when  the  Convention  closed  the  business.  We 
found  many  old  friends  &  made  many  acquaintances,  & 
heard  many  excellent  sermons;  one  from  Bishop  Otey,  sub- 
ject The  Penitent  Thief,  pleased  me  so  much  that  I  have 
had  five  thousand  printed,  trusting  others  may  be  benefited 
by  them. 

OCTOBER  24/*.  I  find  myself  much  taken  up  with 
my  friends  on  the  subject  of  again  allowing  my  name 
to  be  used  as  a  candidate  for  Congress.  Late  at  night  was 
called  up  by  the  sound  of  music;  small  party  of  Gentn 
came  in  to  our  House  &  took  wine.  Mr.  Winthrop  &  Mr. 
Stevenson,  it  was  said,  made  very  pleasant  &  complimen- 
tary remarks  at  Faneuil  Hall  in  relation  to  me  for  the  posi- 
tion for  which  I  am  Nominated.  25^.  Several  persons  called 


1856]  Diary  189 

on  me  for  an  explanation  as  to  what  would  be  my  course 
in  case  I  should  be  elected  to  Congress  in  relation  to  the 
Naturalization  Laws.  I  endeavoured  to  answer  fairly,  but 
as  both  sides  appeared  satisfied  I  fear  they  do  not  under- 
stand me  &  will  give  the  idea  that  I  have  two  stories;  I  try 
to  be  conscientious  in  my  answers.  28^.  "  Courser  "  arrivd 
at  New  York,  156  days  from  China;  much  to  my  relief. 
29^.  Much  interested  in  talking  of  the  coming  election. 
I  do  not  wish  to  be  beaten,  yet  I  shall  in  one  week  be 
better  satisfied  if  not  elected.  31^.  Our  community  seem 
all  engaged  in  politicks;  perhaps  the  only  office  in  which 
there  is  much  doubt  is  whether  Mr.  Burlingame  or  myself 
will  be  elected  for  Congress;  my  opinion  is  that  I  shall  have 
many  more  votes  than  he  will,  but  most  of  my  friends  doubt. 

NOVEMBER  i*.  They  say  Mr.  Burlingame  will  be 
elected;  I  do  not  think  so,  yet  I  almost  hope  he  will. 
Mr.  Stanley,  former  member  of  Congress,  came  to  make 
us  a  visit.  yd.  Went  with  Mr.  Stanley  to  Cambridge, 
Mount  Auburn,  Hospitals,  Jail  &  over  most  of  our  City. 
4A  This  was  the  day  of  the  election  of  President,  U.  S. 
Officers,  Govr,  etc.  of  Masstts  &  Members  of  Congress 
from  this  State.  The  excitement  much  greater  than  usual, 
the  result  very  doubtful  through  the  Country.  I  was  asked 
a  long  time  since  if  I  would  be  a  candidate  for  election  to 
Congress;  I  declined,  but  was  asked  not  to  say  so  while 
they  were  making  other  arrangements.  While  in  Phild  at- 
tending Episcopal  Convention,  I  was  nominated;  &  sev- 
eral friends,  among  them  my  long  tried  friend  Nathan 


190  William  Appleton  [^56 

Appleton,  desiring  &  advising  me  to  stand,  I  wrote  in  ac- 
cordance. The  election  was  very  close,  Mr.  Burlingame 
having  some  Seventy  more  votes  than  for  myself,  twelve 
thousand  cast.  It  was  first  announced  that  I  was  elected 
from  the  News  Papers'  Extra,  &  I  was  waited  on  with  a 
very  large  number  of  persons;  Band  of  music,  etc.  When 
it  was  ascertained  that  I  was  not  elected,  I  can  truly  say 
I  was  never  more  satisfied  that  I  had  escaped  a  most  un- 
pleasant duty.  Had  I  been  elected,  in  again  going  to  Wash- 
ington, it  would  have  been  a  twice  told  tale ;  those  with 
whom  we  most  associated  had  left,  and  after  the  very  strong 
expressions  of  my  power  of  usefulness  much  would  have 
been  expected  of  me;  in  addition  I  am  satisfied  it  is  not 
the  place  for  religious  growth  for  me.  I  have  been  much 
flattered  by  the  kind  remarks  of  my  friends  as  to  my  char- 
acter in  general  &  of  usefulness  at  Washington  in  Speeches 
by  Messrs.  Winthrop,  Stevenson  &  others,  in  Publick,  & 
in  the  Courier,  Daily  Advertiser,  &  without  an  unkind  word 
from  my  opponents.  §th.  Some  excitement,  but  it  is  gen- 
erally understood  Mr.  Buchanan  is  to  be  the  next  President 
of  the  U.  S.  ~jth.  Mr.  Stanley  who  has  been  a  week  with 
us  left  this  morning.  I  think  him  a  most  excellent  man; 
good,  very  good  intentions.  Dined  with  Humane  Society 
at  Dr.  Lothrop's.  8^.  Went  in  the  afternoon  to  the  Opera 
with  Mrs.  Appleton.  \$th.  This  day  closes  my  sixty-ninth 
year — the  age  of  man.  My  life  has  been  varied,  as  much 
so  as  almost  any;  my  education  much  neglected,  and  with 
never  a  strong  disposition  to  improve  it  by  reading  or  by 
other  sources  to  gain  general  information,  I  have  been  sue- 


1856]  Diary  191 

cessful.  When  appointed  President  of  the  U.  S.  Branch 
Bank,  succeeding  Mr.  Gray  &  Mr.  Greene,  I  doubted  and 
feared  my  power  to  sustain  the  position  in  that  place;  I  gave 
satisfaction,  and  the  position  was  useful  in  raising  my  stand- 
ard of  character;  feeling  I  was  so  situated  that  much  was 
expected  of  me,  I  was  more  particular  in  my  manner  of 
business  and  associations  with  others.  The  death  of  my 
eldest  son  had  much  influence  on  my  future.  My  desire  for 
increasing  my  property  was  diminished,  and  with  the  as- 
sociation with  religious  persons,  and  more  than  any  with 
my  dear  departed  Son  Amory,  I  took  a  more  fixed  view 
of  Religion;  what  had  been  form,  I  believe  God  blessed 
with  reality.  Few,  very  few  who  have  lived  for  nearly  fifty 
years  engrossed  in  the  business  of  the  World  in  unchecked 
prosperity  have  been  thus  Blessed.  I  have  had  and  now  at 
times  have  doubts  as  to  the  reality  of  my  change  of  heart, 
yet  I  do  at  this  moment  believe  in  the  Atoning  blood  of 
Jesus  Christ.  Six  years  since  I  was  elected  to  represent  the 
City  of  Boston  in  the  House  of  Representatives  of  the 
United  States.  I  entered  into  the  duties  with  doubt  &  diffi- 
dence. I  was  sustained  &  re-elected  a  second  term  which  I 
served  with  success  &  pleasure  to  myself;  I  was  astonished 
when  the  time  was  ended  that  I  had  so  many  friends  and  so 
high  a  standing.  The  present  month  I  have,  at  the  solicita- 
tions of  friends  &  the  community,  been  a  Candidate  but 
not  elected.Many  of  my  best  and  long  tried  friends  voted 
for  another,  not  because  they  had  lost  respect  or  confidence 
in  me,  but  because  they  differed  from  me  in  political  expe- 
diences. No  man  can  know  what  are  the  feelings  of  others 


192  William  Appleton  [1856 

toward  him,  but  I  do  not  know,  I  have  no  reason  to  believe 
the  person  lives  who  wishes  me  harm;  or  in  common  par- 
lance that  I  have  an  enemy,  &  I  can  truly  say  I  do  not 
know  the  person  toward  whom  I  have  an  unkind  feeling. 
I  do  not  mean  I  feel  alike  to  all. 

DECEMBER  1*.  Went  to  see  my  friend  F.  C.  Gray 
who  we  do  not  expect  to  live  long;  I  asked  him  if 
he  had  any  wish  as  to  the  location  of  the  Marble  he  placed 
in  the  grove  near  my  House  at  Brookline;  he  said  none 
other  than  it  remain  where  it  was  as  long  as  any  son  or 
grandchild  should,  on  seeing  it,  be  reminded  of  the  friend- 
ship that  existed  between  himself  &  me;  after  that  he 
had  no  wish  as  to  its  destination.  1 VK  Hetty's  child  chris- 
tened; Mrs.  Coolidge,  for  whom  it  was  named,  stood  as 
sponsor  with  the  Parents;  most  of  our  children  were  pres- 
ent. \$th.  I  called  on  Mr.  Peabody;  had  a  dinner  for  him 
at  the  Revere  House;  very  well  arranged.  I  presided,  Mr. 
Everett  &  others  made  speeches.  18^.  Dinner  at  Mr. 
Thayer's,  large  party  made  for  Mr.  Peabody  of  London. 
20fd.  I  dined  at  Mr.  Sears' with  Mr.  Peabody  &  some  dozen 
gentlemen;  I  have  been  invited  to  meet  Mr.  Peabody  of 
London  at  a  succession  of  dinner  parties,  six  or  eight.  I 
find  I  can  so  controul  my  appetite  that  I  am  not  incon- 
venienced by  this  dining.  I  can  eat  plain  food  to  the  extent 
of  my  desire;  no  wish  for  Puddings,  pastry,  fruit,  or  Ice.  I 
once  thought  if  I  could  eat  as  much  bread  or  Rice  as  to 
satisfy  my  hunger  I  should  be  very  happy.  24A  Mrs.  Ap- 
pleton very  busy  in  making  preparations  for  tomorrow. 


1857]  Diai7  193 

31".  We  dined  at  Mr.  Coolidge's,  no  company  except  the 
dear  babies. 

1857 

JANUARY  1*.  The  past  year  has  been  one  of  unusual 
excitement  in  the  Political  World,  or  more  properly, 
in  the  United  States.  The  feeling  that  the  Southern  por- 
tion of  the  Country  were  intending  to  extend  slavery  into 
the  Territories  caused  the  excitement  at  the  North,  and 
there  appeared  to  be  a  feeling  that  could  not  be  checked, 
but  since  the  Presidential  Election  we  are  getting  quiet. 
Many  have  thought  there  would  be  a  dissolution  of  the 
Union;  I  have  no  fears  on  that  subject.  I  was,  as  I  now 
think,  most  fortunate  in  not  being  again  elected  to  Con- 
gress. The  past  year  has  been  one  of  general  prosperity  in 
our  Country  in  this  region;  there  has  been  a  depression  in 
the  price  of  Rail  Road  &  Manufacturing  stocks,  but  the 
income  generally  equal  to  an  interest  of  six  per  cent.  It 
has  been  my  intention  to  retire  from  commercial  pursuits, 
but  for  various  causes  I  continue ;  I  think  I  may  be  use- 
ful to  my  wife  &  children  &  while  it  pleases  God  that  I 
should  remain  on  earth  &  I  have  health,  I  feel  it  a  duty 
&  a  pleasure  to  be  active  in  looking  after  my  business  & 
protecting  others'  affairs.  2nd,  Attended  the  funeral  of  my 
long  tried  friend,  F.C.Gray;  a  most  excellent  heart  he 
had,  intelligent  beyond  almost  any,  very  industrious  in 
gaining  information  and  most  happy  in  communicating  it 
to  others.  I  was  in  a  position  to  be  useful  to  him ;  he  al- 
ways expressed  his  gratitude;  not  satisfied  with  express- 


194  William  Appleton  [^57 

ing  his  obligations,  he  gave  plate,  ornaments,  etc.  to  the 
family  costing  more  than  fifteen  Hundred  dollars  as  I  be- 
lieve. \th.  At  Church  Dr.  Vinton  gave  us  an  account  of 
those  who  had  left  the  past  year;  Mr.  Sears  &  myself  are 
the  only  persons  who  were  interested  in  erecting  the  Church 
thirty-six  years  since,  now  Worshipping  in  St.  Paul's.  9^. 
Anniversary  of  our  Marriage,  forty- two  years  since.  17^. 
Called  on  Chief  Justice  Shaw,  quite  ill.  19^.  Snow  pre- 
vents Carriages  from  passing,  I  remain  in  the  House.  20^. 
No  communication  by  Rail  Road;  milkmen  with  diffi- 
culty get  to  the  City.  21",  We  hear  of  many  disasters  on 
the  Coast;  Rail  Roads  partially  opened.  lo^d.  This  is  said 
to  be  the  coldest  day  almost  ever  known  in  this  region. 
Thr  from  5  to  §. 

FEBRUARY  4A  Meeting  Lawrence  Machine  Shop 
Proprs;  bad  business;  stock  worth  nothing.  Party  at 
B.  D.  Greene's.  Mr.  Quincy's  85th  birthday.  &K  Mrs.  C.  H. 
Appleton  delivered  of  a  son:  all  appears  to  be  doing  well; 
a  great  pleasure  to  us  all.  l\st.  Preparing  for  a  trip  to 
Washington.  24A  Arrived  at  Washington,  went  to  Mrs. 
Fish's  party;  called  at  the  President's,  he  asked  to  have  our 
trunks  sent  to  his  Palace,  which  we  declined.  15th.  At  break- 
fast at  Mr.  Corcoran's  who  invited  us  to  stay  with  him; 
dined  at  the  President's.  26^.  At  House  &  Senate,  pleas- 
antly recd.  Messrs.  Toombs  &  Broadhead  asked  us  to 
remove  to  their  Houses  during  our  stay;  dined  at  Gov. 
Aiken's.  27^.  Dined  at  Mr.  Corcoran's,  a  large  &  pleasant 
party;  went  to  the  President's,  immense  crowd. 


1857]  Diary  ]95 

MARCH  2nd.  Left  for  Phild,  but  detained  through 
the  night  in  Boat  at  Havre  de  Grace.  yd.  Arrived 
at  New  York.  4A  Left  in  Boat  for  Boston.  24A  We  have 
accounts  from  China  of  the  destruction  of  a  portion  of  Can- 
ton. 27^.  Invited  by  Chamber  of  Commerce  to  go  to  Wash- 
ington in  relation  to  our  affairs  growing  out  of  the  War  in 
China.  28'^.  Making  arrangements  to  go  to  Washington. 

APRIL  l*.  Arrd  in  Washington  with  Mr.  Hooper.  2«^. 
xV.  Called  on  the  Secy  State,  told  him  our  Mission 
was  in  relation  to  the  state  of  our  commerce  in  China; 
pleasantly  recd.  Called  on  Lord  Napier,  Baron  Stoeckl, 
Count  Sartiges  and  President.  Had  further  interview  with 
General  Cass.  yd.  Went  with  Gen1  Cass  to  the  President's, 
found  them  disposed  to  comply  with  our  wishes.  Called 
on  Mr  Toucey.  £**.  Arrived  home  at  5  A.M.,  attended 
Trinity  Church  in  the  morning,  our  youngest  son  Con- 
firmed. 18^.  Rode  to  office,  found  the  Air  unpleasant;  re- 
turned and  amused  myself  by  looking  over  my  journals; 
much  surprised  to  find  how  much  I  have  changed  in  my 
views  on  various  subjects  within  the  past  twenty  years.  God 
in  His  wise  Providence  has  taken  from  us  some  of  those 
we  most  loved:  those  with  us  show  no  disposition  to  use 
their  talents  to  support  themselves — (I  do  not  complain,  I 
rather  prefer  they  should  not  go  into  business,  not  thinking 
they  would  be  successful).  There  is  no  part  of  my  journal  I 
read  with  so  much  pleasure  as  that  which  relates  to  our  dear 
children  departed,  particularly  Amory,  much  I  loved  him. 


196  William  Appleton  [1857 

MAY  1";  Not  much  appearance  of  Spring;  grays 
greet  green.  nM.  Our  daughter,  Mrs.  Dexter,  de- 
livered of  a  Son  this  morning,  we  are  much  relieved  from 
anxiety.  \2th.  Went  to  Mr.  Lawrence's,  a  children's  Play; 
passed  the  night;  quite  cold,  ice  was  seen.  13^.  Mr.  Apple- 
ton  &  Son  of  Beverly  at  dinner.  \bth.  We  are  anxious  for 
our  dear  Harriet,  she  has  some  fever  &  pain.  ij*K  Harriet 
quite  ill,  more  so  than  yesterday;  all  of  us  very  anxious. 
23rd.  The  early  report  from  Harriet  was  that  she  had  a 
good  night,  but  when  Dr.  Storer  came  he  said  she  was 
not  as  well  as  the  day  before;  at  two  o'clock  she  showed 
symptoms  of  nervous  affection  by  talking  without  being 
conscious.  I  went  with  her  mother  to  see  her;  she  fell  into 
a  sleep  which  continued  the  afternoon;  at  ten  o'clock  I  left 
and  thought  she  might  have  a  quiet  night.  i\th.  On  go- 
ing to  my  dressing-room  I  found  a  note  from  Mr.  Dexter 
saying  our  dear  daughter  had  expired  at  *4  past  eleven 
o'clock  the  last  night;  it  is  a  great  shock  to  us;  she  was 
bright,  good  &  lovely.  This  is  the  sixth  of  our  children 
who  have  gone  before  us;  five  after  arriving  at  the  age  of 
maturity,  four  leaving  offspring.  We  are  not  like  those 
without  hope ;  there  was  no  spot  of  immorality  attached 
to  any  of  them;  all  died  as  we  believe  in  full  faith  of  re- 
demption through  Jesus  Christ.  This  last  affliction  takes 
one  much  endeared  to  a  large  circle,  with  many  personal 
attractions;  she  had  a  brilliant  mind,  very  decided  opin- 
ions, frank  in  expressing  them;  a  very  constant  warm- 
hearted friend,  a  most  devoted  Wife  to  an  adoring  Hus- 


1857]  Diary  197 

band.  Their  seven  years  of  married  life  was  a  most  happy 
period:  her  constitution  not  strong,  yet  with  less  positive 
illness  than  most,  she  appeared  to  be  almost  constructed 
of  nerves.  The  death  of  her  first  child  at  a  few  months 
grieved  her  much.  She  had  a  great  pleasure  in  becoming 
the  mother  of  another  child;  she  lived  two  weeks  after  its 
birth.  He  has  now  the  appearance  of  health  &  we  trust  will 
be  a  consolation  to  us  all.  26^.  This  day  we  followed  to 
the  Church  &  tomb  the  remains  of  our  dear  Harriet.  Often 
have  we  been  called  to  the  sad  service,  but  never  more 
fully  were  the  sluices  of  grief  opened;  we  loved  her  much 
but  God  has  taken  her;  we  try  to  say,  "Thy  will  be  done." 
It  is  hard  to  separate  from  those  we  much  love,  but  Nature 
&  the  religion  we  profess  tell  us  we  shall  meet  again.  Gor- 
don is  much  depressed.  28^.  Rode  to  Brookline  with  Mrs. 
Lawrence  and  her  children;  it  always  gives  me  a  great 
pleasure  to  be  with  her. 

JUNE  2nd,  Mr.  Dexter  with  us  at  dinner,  I  never  saw 
a  more  sincere  mourner.  4A  We  removed  to  Brookline. 
$th.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Coolidge  with  the  dear  children  came 
to  stay  with  us.  16**.  The  dear  Infant  our  Harriet  left  was 
Christened  at  their  late  residence:  Mr.  Dexter,  Grand 
Mother  &  myself  Sponsors.  17^.  Grand  celebration  plac- 
ing the  Statue  of  Gen'l  Warren  on  Bunker  Hill.  25^.  Mr. 
Dexter  took  his  infant  son  to  Beverly.  27^.  Mr.  Dexter 
came  with  me  to  Brookline. 


198  William  Appleton  [1857 

JULY  1".  Mary  Ann  Lawrence  came  to  pass  some  time 
with  us.  2nd,  Took  Mary  Ann  to  school  on  my  way  to 
Boston.  yh.  Went  to  Beverly  with  Hetty;  baby  looking 
well.  i8M.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Coolidge  &  the  dear  children  left  us 
for  Plymouth,  I  love  them  much. 

AUGUST  yd,  I  took  Mrs.  Appleton  to  Plymouth, 
l  passed  a  pleasant  evening  with  our  dear  Hetty  & 
her  little  ones.  bth.  Went  to  Lynn,  dined  &  went  to  Nahant, 
took  lodgings  with  Charles  &  family.  9^.  Attended  Meet- 
ing at  Nahant  and  heard  two  excellent  sermons  from  Pro- 
fessor Park.  \oth.  Went  to  Boston  in  the  Boat,  &  went  to 
Beverly  to  see  my  friend  F.  Dexter  not  doubting  for  the  last 
time.  14A  Mr.  Dexter  died  this  morning.  17^.  Attended 
the  funeral  of  my  friend,  Honble  F.  Dexter.  I  have  known 
him  for  forty-five  years;  strong  mind,  sincere  friend;  not 
as  happy  a  man  as  he  would  have  been  if  less  fastidious; 
no  settled  religious  principles.  \cfh.  Went  with  Mrs.  Ap- 
pleton to  Beverly  to  see  our  dear  Harriet's  Child,  fine  Boy. 
24A  Went  with  Mrs.  Appleton  to  Plymouth.  25**.  Rode 
in  the  woods  with  Jefferson,  walked,  talked  &  passed  the 
day. 

SEPTEMBER  8M.  Much  excitement  in  the  commu- 
nity in  relation  to  the  Monetary  Affairs,  I  do  not  fear 
anything  very  bad.  9^.  We  hear  of  several  failures  in  New 
York  &  Philadelphia.  Gov.  Allen,  V.  Allen  &  Son  of  Provi- 
dence failed  for  a  large  Amount,  Senator  U.  S.  1  \th.  Much 


1857]  Diary  199 

distress  for  money,  worth  15  to  18  per  ct.  \bth.  The  Strin- 
gency in  the  money  market  rather  increases,  with  some 
apprehension  for  the  steamer  from  California.  18^.  Sad  ac- 
counts of  the  Steamer  "  Central  America  "  with  some  five 
hundred  passengers  and  one  &  a  half  millions  of  Specie 
said  to  be  lost,  &  the  failure  of  Messrs.  Mills  &  Co.,  and 
some  smaller  concerns.  19^.  Went  yesterday  afternoon, 
had  a  long  talk  with  Mr.  Francis  who  has  a  very  large 
amount  of  Money  in  the  bank  which  he  is  unwilling  to 
use  fearing  he  shall  get  bad  Notes;  I  think  I  did  much  to 
convince  him  he  might  use  the  money  with  safety.  The 
failure  of  C.  H.  Mills  &  Co.  produces  much  feeling  in 
the  community;  it  is  among  our  oldest  business  establish- 
ments; the  firm  consists  of  five  persons,  all  men  of  good 
reputation.  The  members  of  the  House  inherited  and  re- 
ceived by  marriage  more  than  five  hundred  thousand  dol- 
lars, not  one  hundred  of  it  is  secured  by  being  placed  in 
trust.  All  were  regularly  educated  to  business  except  Mr. 
Eliot,  who  has  been  but  a  few  years  in  the  House.  Three 
were  educated  at  the  College  at  Cambridge;  the  two  Mr. 
Mills  were  from  the  Country,  very  much  of  business  men. 
They  have  had  a  commission  business  for  more  than  twenty 
years  that  must  have  given  an  income  of  more  than  fifty 
thousand  dollars  annually,  on  the  average,  I  think.  They 
have  lost  their  money  in  entering  into  many  kinds  of  busi- 
ness &  extending  themselves,  by  which  at  times  they  have 
paid  extravagantly  for  the  use  of  money,  but  their  great 
loss  is  in  the  reduction  of  Manufacturing  establishments. 
It  is  said  they  will  pay  their  debts  in  full,  that  their  sus- 


200  William  Appleton  D857 

pension  is  only  temporary.  My  belief  is  without  more 
knowledge  than  my  neighbours,  that  if  their  effects  are  dis- 
posed of  soon,  they  will  pay  but  a  portion  of  their  liabili- 
ties, I  fear  less  than  the  half.  21^.  I  found  on  going  to 
the  City  much  excitement  on  account  of  failures  in  Phild, 
and  it  was  said  Lawrence,  Stone  &  Co.  were  not  able  to 
get  on;  two  per  Cent  per  month  was  paid  on  twenty-five 
thousand  dollars,  first  rate  note.  I  returned  home  much 
troubled  for  my  friends  and  not  without  apprehension  lest 
I  should  suffer  with  others,  yet  my  business  could  hardly 
be  more  compact;  income  will  be  much  lessened.  22»<  I 
find  I  am  getting  old;  formerly  my  own  or  others'  business 
affairs  did  not  affect  my  sleep,  not  so  the  last  night.  23^. 
Passed  most  of  the  day  in  relation  to  the  affairs  of  Law- 
rence, Stone  &  Co.  24A  I  am  in  much  doubt  what  is  the 
position  of  Lawrence,  Stone  &  Co.  and  how  they  stand 
with  the  Corporations  with  which  they  are  connected.  I 
have  seldom  felt  so  much  anxiety  &  doubt  how  to  act. 
25^.  I  have  been  all  day  engaged  in  endeavouring  to  get 
the  Bankers  to  Loan  the  Bay  State,  Middlesex,  &  Pem- 
berton  Corporations  five  hundred  Thousand  dollars,  in 
which  I  have  succeeded,  but  I  now  doubt  if  it  will  effect 
the  object  entirely.  We  hear  of  the  failures  of  the  Bank  of 
Pennsylvania  &  the  Girard  Bank  in  Phild.  26^.  The  af- 
fairs of  business  appear  gloomy;  much  is  said  as  to  whether 
the  Banks  in  New  York  &  Boston  will  suspend  specie 
payments,  I  think  they  will  not,  it  is  not  necessary.  28^. 
Much  excitement  in  the  Money  market  &  whether  Banks 
will  suspend.  29^.  We  are  told  that  the  Banks  in  New 


1857]  Diary  201 

York  are  strong.  opth.  We  have  various  accounts  from  New 
York,  I  Telegraphed  for  information;  remained  in  the  City, 
dined  at  Mr.  N.  Appleton's. 

OCTOBER  \st.  They  say  all  is  strong  in  New  York, 
it  now  depends  on  the  Banks;  if  they  do  not  take 
the  risk  of  discounting  freely  they  will  cause  the  Merchants 
to  fail,  &  then  stop.  Lawrence,  Stone  &  Co.  are  protested 
this  day,  the  effect  will  not  be  as  bad  as  generally  thought; 
I  fear  they  will  not  have  property  to  pay  their  debts.  2nd. 
Meeting  Merchants  was  supposed  to  have  been  called  to 
ask  the  Banks  to  suspend  specie  payments;  it  took  a  dif- 
ferent course,  and  they  denied  any  such  intentions.  I  feel 
less  confidence  in  their  strength  than  I  did;  if  the  Banks 
do  not  let  out  money  freely  there  will  be  a  general  break- 
ing up  of  Merchants  &  Manufacturing  Cos.  Had  a  meet- 
ing at  Mr.  J.  A.  Lowell's,  he  is  much  alarmed  on  account 
of  his  liability  for  the  Pemberton  Mills;  he  owns  two 
hundred  thousand  or  ^  of  the  Stock;  100^  pd,  Notes  for 
100-;  my  belief  is  that  he  will  not  lose  as  much  as  his  Stock 
2oom;  that  he  will  have  300^  Property  left.  yd.  The 
hardest  day  for  Merchants  &  traders  I  have  ever  seen, 
money,  or  the  use  of  it  at  two  to  three  per  cent  per  month, 
undoubted  paper;  several  failures;  much  anxiety  for  the 
Steamer  from  California.  I  have  doubts  if  the  New  York 
and  Boston  Banks  do  not  have  to  suspend  specie  pay- 
ments —  I  think  they  will  hold  out,  but  it  is  uncertain. 
4A  Went  to  Boston,  attended  St.  Paul's  Church,  Com- 
munion; regret  much  to  find  myself  so  much  agitated  as 


202  William  Appleton  [1857 

to  the  business  of  the  past  week  that  I  could  not  keep  my 
mind  from  it  during  the  devotions  of  the  day ;  poor  miser- 
able beings,  we  are.  $*K  A  better  feeling  exists  in  our  com- 
munity; the  arrival  of  the  Steamer  with  gold  from  Califor- 
nia will  give  aid  and  confidence.  Fine  weather  for  many 
days  past.  6M.  Things  do  not  appear  as  bright  as  yesterday; 
much  distress  among  those  who  want  to  borrow  money. 
jt/l.  Removed  to  Boston.  Very  busy  with  other  people's 
affairs.  We  hear  of  many  failures  in  New  York  &  Phila- 
delphia. gf/*.  No  relief  in  the  money  market;  I  do  not  think 
things  can  continue  in  this  way  many  days.  10^.  This  has 
been  the  most  trying  day  tome,  The  Lyman  Mills  &  Holy- 
oke  on  the  point  of  failure ;  Mr.  Lyman  dined  with  us. 
i2//z.  There  appears  but  little  change  in  the  state  of  things; 
none  for  the  better,  some  failures.  13^.  Accounts  from 
New  York  Bad,  the  Banks  failing;  heavy  suspensions  here; 
Skinner  &  Howe,  etc.  14A  This  morning  we  have  the 
failures  of  all  the  Banks  in  New  York.  Boston,  but  not 
without  some  opposition,  follows.  Those  who  twenty  years 
hence  read  of  this  general  failure  of  the  Banks  in  the  U.  S. 
will  not,  nor  can  I,  account  for  it.  A  more  abundant  Har- 
vest God  never  blessed  us  with;  more  Gold  than  at  any 
time  since  the  Government  was  established ;  only  a  mod- 
erate debt  to  Europe  from  individuals;  Exchange  on  Lon- 
don par  to  one  per  Cent,  &  yet  all  is  at  a  Stand.  Wrote 
Mr.  Bates  in  relation  to  Michigan  Rail  Road.  Copy  in  my 
letter  Book.  \$th.  Spent  much  of  the  day  in  relation  to  the 
Banks  extending  their  loans;  money  is  as  difficult  to  be 
obtained  as  before  the  Stoppage  of  Specie  Payments.  16^. 


1857]  Diary  203 

Attended  meeting  Presidents  of  the  Banks;  a  good  feel- 
ing prevailed,  but  they  find  a  new  state  of  things,  and  are 
unwilling  to  act;  I  think  things  will  become  better.  Wrote 
Mr.  Bates,  sent  him  Mr.  N.  Appleton's  printed  views  of 
the  present  state  of  affairs.  17^.  This  day  ends  a  week  of 
much  excitement  and  chagrin  at  the  failure  of  the  Banks 
in  New  York  &  most  of  the  United  States.  Many  are  re- 
lieved from  the  pressure  for  money,  but  all  feel  disgraced, 
and  that  it  might  have  been  avoided.  19^.  Most  of  the 
morning  engaged  with  Mr.  C.  G.  Loring  in  relation  to  the 
Hampden  Company  affairs;  I  feel  much  interest  in  him; 
I  think  I  can  do  a  great  benefit  to  him  &  his  friends  with- 
out loss  or  much  exertion  on  my  part.  10th.  Much  occu- 
pied in  business  of  others  &  my  own.  21^.  Meeting  was 
held  of  some  friends  of  Mr.  C.  G.  Loring,  who  agree  to 
indemnify  me  against  loss  in  the  Hampden  Company.  I 
do  not  think  they  fully  approve  of  my  undertaking  it,  but 
believe  I  am  governed  by  kind  feelings  rather  than  dis- 
cretion. Went  with  Mr.  Dexter  &  Mr.  Hooper  to  see  the 
Ship  we  have  bought,  at  South  Boston.  IInd.  Engaged  in 
the  arrangements  for  the  Hampden  Company.  The  Globe 
Bank  offered  me  twenty  thousand  dollars;  the  Merchants', 
fifty,  which  I  accepted,  with  Mr.  Coolidge's  &  my  name. 
20fd.  Things  do  not  improve  in  N.  York  as  in  Boston.  24A 
I  am  requested  by  several  persons  interested  in  our  Banks, 
to  go  to  New  York  to  ascertain  what  is  the  intention  of 
the  Managers  of  their  Banks  as  to  discounting  &  resuming 
specie  payments.  26^.  Left  with  William  for,  and  arrived 
in,  N.  York  at  1  \]/2  O.C.  P.M.  27^.  Called  on  Mr.  New- 


204  William  Appleton  \_l%57 

bold,  Stevens,  Tileston,  and  various  other  gentlemen  in- 
terested in  the  Banks ;  they  feel  that  it  was  a  mistake  in 
pressing  the  payments  so  far  as  to  induce  persons  to  com- 
pel the  Banks  to  suspend,  but  the  worst  is  past  and  things 
will  get  into  their  natural  course.  Money  will  be  easy  ere 
long.  28^.  Arrived  &  slept  at  Springfield.  29^.  Went  with 
Mr.  Loring,  Minot,  Jackson  &  Coolidge  to  the  Hamp- 
den Mills.  31^.  Things  do  not  get  right,  I  fear  more  fail- 
ures. Mrs.  Appleton  has  a  bad  cold. 

NOVEMBER  4A  Our  Ship  "Edith  Rose"  sailed  for 
China;  I  think  well  of  the  voyage;  the  goods  she 
takes  will  arrive  to  a  good  market  &  tea  will  be  much 
lower  than  early  in  the  season.  5^.  At  my  suggestion,  sev- 
eral persons  interested  in  the  Lawrence  Machine  Co.  met 
and  agreed  to  loan  the  Company,  which  if  carried  into 
effect  prevents  there  being  a  failure  to  meet  their  indebt- 
edness. I  consider  this  the  most  important  thing  I  have 
done  for  months;  it  much  affects  the  interest  of  Mr.  G.  W. 
Lyman  and  others  on  their  paper.  Mrs.  A.  better.  6th.  Our 
accounts  from  Europe  are  more  encouraging.  8^.  Mr. Ward 
&  Capt.  Swift  at  my  House  in  relation  to  the  Michigan 
Rail  Road.  \oth.  Michigan  Rail  Road  Bonds  are  taken; 
I  have  none,  I  do  not  like  the  management.  Rev.  E.  M.  P. 
Wells  with  us  at  tea;  a  good  man,  with  many  eccentrici- 
ties. 13^.  We  have  Telegraphic  accounts  from  England, 
India  &  China  which  appear  favourable.  14A  Our  letters 
confirm  the  pleasant  intelligence  by  Telegraph  of  yester- 
day, except  the  prospects  of  trade  from  China.  We  hear 


1857]  Diary  205 

our  Ship  "Nabob"  is  safe,  but  shall  probably  lose  by  the 
voyage.  i6M.  Seventy-one  years  old;  think  myself  as  use- 
ful to  my  family  &  friends  as  at  any  period  of  my  life. 
i8M.  I  have  been  occupied  with  other  persons'  affairs;  I  am 
most  happy  when  fully  engaged  in  doing  what  others  avoid, 
in  accomplishing  what  others  cannot  or  will  not  attempt. 
25//;.  We  have  accounts  of  the  Banks  of  England  being 
allowed  to  extend  their  circulation.  I  fancy  it  will  be  fol- 
lowed by  a  Suspension  of  Specie  payments.  30^.  Much 
engaged  in  my  business  — removed  to  8}£  Tremont 
Street. 

DECEMBER  3r<  Accounts  from  England  show  as 
much  over  trading  as  on  this  side  of  the  water;  there 
will  be  much  dullness  in  business  for  the  year  to  come, 
but  we  shall  soon  forget  the  present  troubles.  \th.  Our  in- 
formation in  detail  shows  that  there  is  a  better  feeling  in 
England,  yet  they  are  not  out  of  the  woods.  8th.  Almost  a 
Spring  day,  rode  with  Mrs.  Appleton.  Quite  at  leisure  by 
comparison.  10^.  No  news,  things  are  getting  quiet.  11**. 
Passed  an  hour  with  Col.  Fremont,  a  pleasant  man.  16^. 
Sir  Charles  Fox  &  son  with  Wm  &  Jefferson  at  dinner.  Sir 
Charles  is  very  pleasant,  I  should  like  to  know  more  of 
him.  25^,  Xtnas.  At  Church;  sad  to  think  our  dear  Harriet 
who  communed  with  us  the  last  year  is  no  more.  Why  say 
sad!  We  loved  her  much;  we  shall  soon  meet  again  as  we 
trust  &  believe  in  a  World  where  there  is  no  death  nor  sor- 
row; Blessed  Hope.  Philosophers  without  the  blessed  hope 
that  we  should  meet  again,  reconciled  themselves  in  the 


206  William  Appleton  [1857 

death  of  those  they  most  loved  by  saying  that  all  must  die 
and  whether  a  few  years  sooner  or  later  it  was  not  impor- 
tant, that  Life  had  its  disappointments  as  well  as  its  plea- 
sures; if  they  thus  reasoned,  we  with  Christian  assurances 
should  not  ask,  Why  is  it  so?  26^.  Mr  Dexter  left  us  for 
his  apartments  in  Winter  Street;  we  would  have  preferred 
his  making  our  House  his  home.  30'^.  Our  streets  were  cov- 
ered with  ice  in  the  morning;  Boys  have  fine  coasting. 
Mr.  Dexter  &  Master  Frank  at  dinner.  31^.  The  year  is 
drawing  to  a  close,  and  in  a  commercial  point  one  of  the 
most  trying  of  any  during  my  knowledge,  not  excepting 
1837. 1  have  shared  with  others  in  the  calamity,  but  slightly 
compared  with  many  others. 

1858 

JANUARY  Ist.  The  monetary  crisis  of  the  past  few 
months  produced  more  distress  than  that  in  1837,  yet 
I  do  not  believe  its  evils  will  be  so  long  felt  by  the  com- 
munity. I  will  not  attempt  to  speak  of  the  cause  of  the 
crisis,  there  are  many,  but  extravagance  in  our  expenses 
is  among  the  many,  and  possibly  the  foundation  of  most. 
A  large  expenditure  leads  to  a  desire  to  extend  business, 
and  over  production,  caused  by  an  artificial  demand  when 
checked,  has  filled  the  Warehouses  and  shops  of  the  world 
with  merchandise,  for  which  the  owners  expected  to  obtain 
the  means  of  paying  for  it  from  sales.  Manufacturing 
and  producing  will  be  checked  &  the  demand  will  ere 
long  take  the  surplus  at  less  prices  than  was  anticipated, 


1858]  Diary  207 

but  the  loss  will  not  be  like  that  in  1837,  when  the  invest- 
ments were  made  in  City  lots  only  known  in  the  imagina- 
tion. Many  of  our  acquaintances  and  some  of  our  neigh- 
bours who  thought  themselves  rich  find  they  have  no  prop- 
erty, and  the  general  depression  in  Rail  Road  stocks  & 
bonds  &  Manufacturing  Cos.  causes  much  inconvenience 
&  some  real  distress  to  persons  with  means  limited  to  their 
usual  expenditure.  No  considerable  number  have  been  free 
from  the  calamity,  and  for  myself,  not  from  any  particular 
foresight,  partly  from  not  being  over  invested,  I  have  suf- 
fered less  than  my  neighbours  in  my  investments;  they  be- 
ing generally  made  in  Companies  in  operation  before  those 
of  Lawrence  &  Holyoke;  the  losses  from  investments 
in  those  two  places  are  frightful,  more  than  ten  Millions 
of  Dollars;  they  were  enterprises  of  Honble  Abbott  Law- 
rence &  J.  K.  Mills.  The  loss  to  the  estate  of  the  former  I 
doubt  not  will  be  a  Million  of  Dollars;  the  latter,  all  he  pos- 
sessed. I  have  about  six  hundred  thousand  dollars  par  value 
in  Manufacturing  Stocks  at  this  time;  they  would  not  sell 
for  four  hundred  thousand  dollars.  I  bought  yesterday, 
stocks  in  the  Dwight  Company  for  four  hundred  dollars, 
I  have  in  the  same  concern  that  which  I  paid  one  thou- 
sand dollars  for;  I  have  full  confidence  in  the  rapid  ad- 
vance in  these  stocks;  they  have  been  years  in  declining, 
but  will  advance  rapidly;  I  expect  the  stocks  I  now  pur- 
chase at  four  hundred  dollars  will  sell  for  six  in  one  year 
&  eight  in  two  years.  We  have  large  dependencies  in  China 
and  doubtful  of  the  result,  but  I  feel  that  there  will  be  a 
good  business  in  the  China  produce  before  the  affairs  of 


208  William  Appleton  [1858 

that  region  are  settled,  &  goods  will  fall  so  as  to  give  a 
good  profit  from  Calcutta  within  one  year.  I  do  not  think 
my  property  would  sell  at  this  time  for  more  than  it  would 
four  or  five  years  since;  my  real  estate  is  more  valuable; 
the  House  in  which  I  write  &  have  occupied  nearly  forty 
years,  I  refused  forty-five  thousand  for,  to  Mr.  F.  Sears, 
for  which,  I  paid  fourteen  thousand  dollars.  I  am  surprised 
that  I  take  so  active  an  interest  in  business;  I  cannot  think 
it  is  all  for  gain,  as  I  feel  as  much  interest  &  zeal  when 
occupied  for  others  as  when  for  myself;  this  is  to  be  ac- 
counted for,  in  the  pleasure  of  doing  what  others  cannot 
do,  &  to  get  applause  for  so  doing;  not  a  high  motive,  but 
better  than  a  sordid  one.  It  has  been  my  intention  to  retire 
from  Commercial  pursuits,  but  causes  not  quite  within  my 
controul  lead  me  to  continue  for  the  present.  I  have  great 
interest  in  my  sons-in-law  Mr.  Dexter  &  Mr.  Coolidge  & 
wish  to  aid  them  by  my  advice,  and  I  do  not  forget  the 
advice  of  my  friend  Bowditch :  "  Continue  business  while 
you  have  health,  it  will  be  well  for  yourself,  your  family  & 
the  community."  2"<Our  dear  Hetty  confined;  a  healthy 
daughter,  they  say.  8^.  Bought  this  day  ten  Thousand  dol- 
lars of  stock  in  Lyman  Mills  at  Springfield,  42^  per  Cent 
of  the  cost;  Active  capital  of  more  than  22  per  cent  I  think 
the  stock  will  double  the  present  market  price  &  will  pay 
eight  per  cent  div.  the  next  five  years  on  the  par  value. 
\oth.  At  Dr.  Vinton's  Church  in  the  morning  to  hear  Mr. 
Mason,  brother  of  Charles  H.  A.'s  Wife.  1  VK  At  Stand- 
ing Committee  &  the  Life  Office  most  of  the  morning. 
13^.  Meeting  Stockholders  Boston  &  Providence  Rail 


1858]  Diary  209 

Road.  I  did  not  attend;  I  said  I  would  not  serve  as  a  di- 
rector, but  I  thought  I  would  not  go  there  and  decline.  I 
do  not  think  I  agree  with  the  other  directors  as  to  the  par- 
ticular interest  of  the  road;  I  think  we  should  look  more 
to  the  general  interest  of  railroads,  &  avoid  competition; 
We  shall  have  a  grand  quarrel,  but  I  may  do  good  in  ar- 
ranging matters.  15^.  Club  at  my  house;  present,  Judge 
Shaw,  William  Sturgis,  Nathan  Appleton,  Thomas  Mot- 
ley, Charles  P.  Curtis,  N.  Hale,  and  C.  H.  Warren.  21*. 
Beautiful  day.  Mrs.  Burnham  went  to  see  them  skate  on 
Jamaica  Pond.  30^.  Called  to  see  Francis  C.  Lowell  just  re- 
turned from  France;  very  excellent  man.  31".  Mr.  Greene 
preached  before  the  Society  for  the  Children's  Home1  in 
Charles  Street; — he  shew  that  he  can  write  well  &  his 
delivery  &  manner  very  acceptable,  a  most  earnest  and 
devoted  man;  I  think  he  will  be  less  rigid  in  his  theological 
views  if  he  lives  ten  years. 


F 


EBRUARY  10^.  Went  with  the  Trustees  Humane 
Society  to  have  a  photograph  taken. 


MARCH  $th.  Dined  with  Trustees  of  the  Humane 
Society  at  Dr.  Warren's;  splendid  dinner.  19^.  Sale 
of  our  tea  in  New  York.  Mr.  Dexter  says  it  was  equal  to 
expectation.  opth.  Mrs.  Coolidge's  third  daughter  chris- 
tened Sarah  Lawrence.  Father,  Mother,  &  Mrs.  Lawrence 
were  sponsors. 

1  Church  Home  Society. 


210  William  Appleton  [1858 

APRIL  19^.  Went  to  Mount  Vernon  with  John  A. 
jljl  Burnham,  found  my  sister  quite  ill.  On  our  return  at 
Milford  the  Horse  took  fright  &  ran  with  the  buggy  which 
I  was  in  something  like  the  half  of  a  mile,  much  to  my 
peril.  l\th.  Mrs.  Burnham  left  us  after  passing  the  winter. 
We  have  and  I  doubt  not  she  enjoyed  her  visit. 

MAY  \$K  Mrs.  C.  H.  Appleton  was  delivered  of  a 
Son  at  five  o'clock  this  afternoon.  2'6**.  Mr.  N.  Ap- 
pleton &  myself  went  to  Amherst;  pleased  with  the  build- 
ing &  arrangements  in  relation  to  the  funds  we  gave  from 
Mr.  S.  Appleton's  Estate.  28^.  Went  with  Mrs.  Appleton 
to  Brookline  &  the  Laying  of  the  corner  Stone  for  Chapel 
at  Newton;  dined  at  Mr.  Greene's. 

JUNE  8t/l.  Wm  &  Jefferson  left  for  a  fishing  excursion. 
gt/l.  Removed  to  Brookline;  Mrs.  Coolidge  &  children 
are  here  for  the  summer.  i^K  Engaged  in  business  of 
Hampden  Company;  recd  a  very  complimentary  note 
from  C.  G.  Loring,  &  others  in  relation  to  their  Affairs. 
16^.  Went  with  Judge  Warren  to  New  York  and  stopped 
at  the  Brevoort  House.  17^.  Meeting  in  relation  to  the 
different  Rail  Road  &  Steamer  Proprietors  between  Bos- 
ton &  New  York;  arranged  for  ferries,  etc.  2y*.  With  Mr. 
N.  Appleton  I  visited  New  Ipswich  &  Temple,  where  I 
passed  five  years  of  my  life,  not  having  been  there  since. 
I  left  at  the  age  of  twenty,  more  than  fifty  years  since ;  most 
of  those  I  knew  when  residing  there  have  passed  to  an- 


1858]  Diary  211 

other  existence.  David  Stiles  &  Nathan  Wheeler  who  were 
in  the  Store  with  me  are  living;  I  saw  them,  old  men.  We 
slept  at  Mr.  Bent's,  pleasantly  recd. 

JULY  2nd.  I  went  with  Wm  to  Brookfield;  Visited  the 
spot  where  my  father  &  brothers  are  laid:  the  Monu- 
ment appeared  very  well  and  in  good  taste;  slept  at  West 
Brookfield  after  calling  on  Dr.  Snell,1  Successor  to  my 
father.  $th.  At  his  request,  called  on  Dr.  Vinton;  he  told  me 
he  was  invited  to  remove  to  Philadelphia.  I  said  to  him 
so  far  as  my  knowledge  went  there  was  a  uniform  feeling 
of  regret  at  his  leaving;  others  might  say  more  &  feel  less 
than  myself;  the  connection  with  my  family  was  such  as 
not  to  be  severed  without  pain:  during  his  Ministry  he  had 
attended  the  Weddings  of  six  of  our  Children,  followed 
four  to  their  tombs,  christened  seventeen  of  our  Grand 
Children:  should  he  conclude  to  leave  he  would  always 
have  my  warmest  friendship.  I  had  hoped  he  would  have 
remained  while  I  lived.  Attended  the  Celebration  of  the 
day;  dined  at  Revere  House,  very  pleasant,  all  the  services; 
Mr.  Choate  &  Mr.  Everett  very  happy  in  their  remarks. 
14A  Wm  and  twins  at  dinner,  Mrs.  Lawrence  and  chil- 
dren; in  all,  ten  Grand  Children  to  see  us  before  leaving 
for  Saratoga.  i$*K  Mrs.  Appleton,  Mrs.  Burnham  &  our 
servant  George  left  for  Saratoga  Springs;  slept  at  Bellows 
Falls;  good  house,  delightfully  situated.  16^.  Left  Bellows 

1  He  sent  $5000  to  Dr.  Snell  and  a  number  of  valuable  books  to  lay  the  foun- 
dation of  a  Parish  Library  which  should  be  held  and  maintained  "for  the  use  of 
the  ministers  of  the  said  church  forever." 


2i2  William  Appleton  [1858 

Falls  at  Mid  Day;  very  clear  &  pleasant  atmosphere; 
very  interesting  Country  we  passed.  At  5^  P.M.,  arrived 
at  U.  S.  Hotel,  found  our  rooms  prepared;  the  place 
improved,  very  handsome.  17^.  We  find  several  old  ac- 
quaintances, among  them  Mr.  Conrad  of  New  Orleans, 
Dr.  Duncan  of  Natchez,  Mr.  J.  A.  Stevens,  New  York; 
the  Hotel  not  crowded.  19^.  Mrs.  Appleton  passed  most 
of  the  morning  with  Mrs.  Banks,  an  old  friend,  formerly 
Miss  Lenox.  We  met  Mrs.  Stoeckl,  wife  of  the  Russian 
Minister,  &  Mr.  Chubb  of  Washington;  much  talk  of 
Washington  friends.  22^.  Made  &  recd  several  calls;  Rus- 
sian Minister,  Lady  &  Captain  in  Russian  Service  among 
the  number.  24A  Find  ourselves  at  home;  all  well,  pleas- 
ant trip,  no  accident,  with  much  to  gratify  us.  Y]th.  Mrs. 
Appleton  had  our  children  &  most  of  our  grand  children 
with  us ;  Charles  Hook's  &  Wm's  Emily's  birthday. 

AUGUST  &K  Went  with  Mrs.  Appleton  to  Nahant; 
x\.  dined  at  Mrs.  Greene's  to  meet  Lord  &  Lady  Napier, 
pleasant  Party  of  fourteen.  ioM.  Engaged  in  arranging  to 
dispatch  the  ship  "Orion"  for  Calcutta  via  San  Francisco. 
\ofh.  Charles'  infant  quite  ill.  Rode  to  see  them  load  the 
Cars  with  gravel.  17**.  All  talk  of  the  Telegraph  Cable. 
21^.  Charles'  infant  very  low.  2yd.  Attended  funeral  of 
J.  C.  Appleton,  infant  son  of  C.  H.  &  Isabella  M.  Ap- 
pleton. 


s 


EPTEMBER  6'*.  Mr.  Shepherd  &  Mrs.  Brooks  at 
tea.  Qfh.  Went  to  see  Mr.  Dexter  &  the  dear  boy.  1  Ith. 


1858]  Diary  213 

Went  to  the  City;  returned  with  Mrs.  Coolidge  &  my  pet 
Nora.  21".  Mr.  Ebenezer  Francis  died,  I  have  known 
him  for  fifty  years;  a  much  better  man  than  he  has  been 
thought  in  our  community.  2yd.  Mr.  Francis'  funeral, 
much  said  of  his  property.  I  have  never  so  much  felt  the 
vanity  of  riches. 

OCTOBER  \VK  Called  on  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Jeff  Davis. 
ljth.  Dedication  of  the  Appleton  Chapel  at  Cam- 
bridge; services  very  good.  28^.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  &  Miss  Sils- 
bee  came  to  pass  the  day  &  night  with  us  to  attend  the 
wedding  of  Mr.  Hammond  &  Miss  Warren;  very  large 
Elegant  wedding. 

NOVEMBER  2«<  Election  of  Gov'  &  Members  of 
Congress,  etc.  The  Principles  of  the  Party  better  than 
the  men,  Republican.  10^.  Went  with  William  to  New- 
ton to  see  Master  Frank,  well  situated  we  found  him.  1  \th. 
Went  to  Somerville;  pleased  with  Dr.  Tyler.  I  have  never 
disposed  of  money  that  gives  more  satisfaction  to  myself 
than  the  buildings  I  put  up  there;  I  shall  die  with  less 
regret,  feeling  that  if  any  of  mine  required  an  Asylum, 
there  was  one  befitting  their  Wants.  13^.  Frank  with  us. 
Mr.  Dexter  took  his  boy  to  Mrs.  Lawrence's.1  2$th.  Mr. 
Augustus  Thorndike  died  at  Tremont  House. 

DECEMBER  2nd.  Dined  with  party  given  by  Sena- 
tor Wilson  to  talk  on  Tariff;  pleasant  dinner,  and 

1  He  stayed  there  until  May,  1864. 


214  William  Appleton  [1858 

I  think  a  useful  meeting.  Sat  to  Mr.  Ames.  2iX  We  had 
at  dinner  Mr.  Morgan  of  London  &  Mr.  Samuel  Dana. 
24A  Meeting  Proprietors  Vermont  &  Canada  Rail  Road 
as  to  accepting  the  Charter;  I  voted  against  it,  proposing 
they  should  first  be  satisfied  that  they  could  obtain  the 
means.  31^.  The  year  about  closing  commenced  with  un- 
usual embarrassments  among  all  classes  of  our  commu- 
nity; much  of  the  then  anxiety  has  passed  but  the  effect  will 
not  be  forgotten  for  a  long  time.  The  shipping  interest  is 
much  depressed, — more  ships  than  there  is  employment 
for.  The  business  of  William  Appleton  &  Co.  has  been 
very  small  and  without  profit,  probably  with  a  trifling  loss. 
The  late  advance  on  Stocks,  more  particularly  Manufac- 
turing, causes  my  property  to  appear  One  hundred  Thou- 
sand dollars  more  than  at  the  commencement  of  the  year. 
During  the  past  year  I  have  had  much  pleasure  in  the 
power  to  prevent  the  Hampden  Mills  from  failing,  which 
would  have  been  disastrous  to  my  friend  C.  G.  Loring  & 
others;  I  was  paid  for  what  services  I  rendered,  but  what 
was  more  gratifying,  the  feeling  expressed  of  gratitude. 
Mr.  Loring  asked  me  to  sit  for  my  Pourtrait,1  saying  he 
wished  his  children  to  remember  that  I  saved  him  from 
failing. 

1859 

JANUARY  v*.  Most  persons  are  engaged  in  getting 
dividends  or  paying  visits.  11**.  The  coldest  day  for 
years.  Ther.  -n.  28^.  Our  next  door  neighbour  &  long 

1  Now  owned  by  Mrs.  T.  J.  Coolidge. 


1859]  Diary  215 

esteemed  friend  Honble  W™  H.  Prescott  died,  he  will  be 
much  lamented;  his  character  as  a  Historian  stands  among 
the  Highest  of  his  time;  a  man  of  kind  feelings,  died  much 
beloved. 

FEBRUARY  fK  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Ward  with  four  children 
&  servant  came  to  our  House  on  their  way  to  Europe, 
he  for  China,  Minister  Plenipotentiary.  I  think  he  makes 
a  mistake  in  giving  up  his  business  in  Georgia.  1  \th.  Mrs. 
Lawrence  &  boys  at  dinner.  17^.  Meeting  in  Relation  to 
Webster  statue. 

MARCH  yd.  Meeting  Proprietors  St.  Paul's  Church; 
authorized  by  a  vote  43  to  2  to  invite  Dr.  Nichol- 
son to  become  our  Rector.  1$th.  Engaged  in  arranging  for 
the  sale  of  Mrs.  W™  A.  Jr.'s  place  at  Brookline.  She  gave  me 
written  directions  to  accept  an  offer  of  twenty  thousand, 
two  hundred  fifty  dollars.  I  said  to  the  Broker  the  place 
would  be  sold  for  that  price  but  not  until  I  knew  who  was 
to  be  the  purchaser;  he  said  he  was  not  at  liberty  to  say,  but 
would  go  to  his  principal,  Shortly  he  and  Mr.  Bacon  called; 
Mr.  B.  said  the  offer  was  made  supposing  all  that  Dr.  War- 
ren occupied  belonged  to  the  place  and  he  should  with- 
draw his  offer.  I  finally,  rather  than  break  off  the  sale,  said 
he  might  occupy  the  piece  in  the  garden,  while  I  resided 
in  my  House  in  Brookline,  he  allowing  me  a  piece  near 
my  stable,  during  the  same  time,  to  be  used  for  a  garden, 
to  which  he  assented;  neither  to  gain  a  permanent  title.  I 
think  the  sale  a  fair  price,  but  regret  my  son's  leaving  us, 


216  William  Appleton  [_l&59 

but  think  it  is  best  it  should  be  so.  l~]th.  Dr.  Stone  gave  us  a 
most  splendid  sermon  on  Repentance. 

APRIL  5^.  Went  to  hear  Henry  Ward  Beecher  on 
JT\.  Burns;  \  only  pleased.  2\st.  Mrs.  Burnhamleftus;  she 
is  a  fine  woman  and  much  improved.  2~jth.  Left  with  Mrs. 
Appleton  &  George  (servant)  for  New  York  &  Philadel- 
phia. 

MAY  3r<  Left  for  New  York,  pleasant  passage,  met 
Mrs.  N.  Appleton  at  Brevoort  House  —  pleasantly 
lodged.  $th.  Went  to  Wall  Street,  some  shops,  to  see  some 
Pictures,  bought  a  carriage,  etc.  bth.  Left  for  home,  hard 
day's  ride,  much  dust.  13^.  Dr.  &  Mrs.  Nicholson  came 
to  stop  with  us;  some  thirty  or  forty  persons  to  meet  them 
in  the  evening.  1$**.  Two  sermons  from  Dr.  N.;  very  well 
received,  but  long, — 45  &  50  mins.  17'*.  Our  friends  left 
us;  I  think  well  of  them.  I  fancy  he  will  become  Rector  of 
St.  Paul's,  I  hope  he  will;  there  will  be  opposition,  but  he 
is  a  Man  of  talents  &  discretion  &  will  soon  overcome 
it,  I  trust  and  doubt  not  if  he  shortens  his  Sermons.  29^. 
Charles'  wife  presented  him  with  a  daughter  this  morning. 
31^.  Mr.  Dexter  left  us  for  Europe  &  China.  I  have  much 
affection  &  respect  for  him. 

JUNE  22«<  Dined  with   Mr.  Coolidge;1  Boat  Race. 
26^.  At  Dr.  Stone's  church,  Bishop  Boone  preached  in 
afternoon,  he  came  &  slept  at  our  House;  I  gave  five  hun- 

1  93  Beacon  Street.  The  sea  wall  and  river  were  directly  behind  the  house. 


1859]  Diary  217 

dred  dollars  to  China  Mission.  opth.  Mrs.  Coolidge  con- 
fined, Child  died  in  the  delivery. 

JULY  i".  Went  with  Mrs.  Appleton  to  Boston;  put  the 
infant  of  our  dear  daughter  in  Tomb  under  St.  Paul's 
Church.  The  ways  of  God  are  mysterious  to  us,  but  all 
right.  2nd.  Attended  meeting  of  Committee  of  One  Hun- 
dred in  relation  to  the  Webster  Memorial;  Mr.  Everett 
was  not  present,  his  wife  in  a  dying  state.  We  effected  our 
object,  more  feeling  than  judgment  in  the  contention.  1  \*K 
Meeting  of  committee,  Mr.  Everett  &  others,  as  to  plac- 
ing statue  of  Mr.  Webster.  14A  We  hear  of  the  death  of 
Mr.  Choate  at  Halifax.  A  man  of  extraordinary  powers  as 
an  orator;  none  stood  higher  as  an  Advocate.  22*<  Meet- 
ing at  Faneuil  Hall,  occasioned  by  death  of  Mr.  Choate. 

A  UGUST4A  Went  with  Mrs.  Appleton  to  Newport, 
jlV.  where  we  passed  six  days  very  pleasantly  with  Wm 
Jr.'s  family.  We  found  them  pleasantly  situated  and  dis- 
posed to  make  our  time  pass  pleasantly.  We  met  many 
of  our  friends  and  acquaintances,  among  them,  Gov.  and 
Mrs.  Fish  and  family,  Gov.  Aiken,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Stanley, 
and  Gen1  Taylor.  William  and  I  dined  with  a  pleasant 
party  at  Dr.  Mercer's  of  New  Orleans.  15^.  Some  of  Mrs. 
Lawrence's  family  left  for  the  White  Mountains;  she  re- 
mained owing  to  the  indisposition  of  our  dear  Dexter  boy. 
28^.  Uncommon  appearance  of  the  sky  in  the  evening. 
The  appearance  was  what  is  called  Northern  light  but 
very  bright  extending  over  the  whole  Hemisphere. 


218  William  Appleton  [1859 

SEPTEMBER  9'*.  Put  the  Webster  statue  on  the 
Pedestal;  much  pleased  with  its  appearance.  15th.  En- 
gaged in  arranging  for  the  Webster  statue.  16^-  We  are 
much  in  doubt  as  to  the  Weather  for  tomorrow.  17^.  All 
doubts  as  to  weather  removed,  we  have  a  Violent  rain 
Storm.  Mr.  Everett  delivered  the  address  intended  to  be 
spoken  in  the  State  House,  read  at  the  Music  Hall  with 
great  applause.  We  had  at  dinner  Mr.  Everett,  Dr.  Loth- 
rop,  Ex  Presf  Pierce,  Gov.  Fish,  Mr.  Bartlett,  John  H. 
Heard,  Professor  Felton,  Mayor  Lincoln,  J.  H.  Shaw, 
Mr.  Ignatius  Sargent,  Peter  Harvey,  A.  A.  Lawrence, 
Wm  Amory,  Wm  A.  Jr.,  &  T.  J.  Coolidge.  26^.  George L. 
Appleton  came  out  and  passed  the  night  with  us,  a  well- 
meaning  Lad,  and  if  he  lives  I  think  he  will  be  respec- 
table, but  not  very  useful.  27^.  Mr.  Everett  repeated  his 
Oration  on  the  Webster  Statue.  opth.  Mr.  Coolidge  and 
family  left  us,  having  passed  the  summer  with  us  much  to 
my  gratification.  I  love  them  all  much. 

NOVEMBER  16^.  Old  age  comes  very  kindly  on 
me;  I  am  as  able  to  attend  to  business  or  pleasure  as 
when  half  as  Old,  now  seventy-three.  I  have  a  large  prop- 
erty and  kind  wishes  of  my  neighbours,  I  do  not  know  the 
person  whom  I  should  not  take  by  the  hand  with  pleasure. 

DECEMBER  2nd.  Meeting  at  Tremont  House  in  re- 
lation to  a  general  meeting  in  Faneuil  Hall;  some 
Action  should  be  taken.  3^.  Passed  most  of  the  following 


1859]  Diary  219 

day  in  making  arrangements  for  the  Meeting  on  the  8th. 
7M.  Busy  arranging  for  the  Meeting.  Mr.  Beguin  of  N.  C. 
passed  the  evening  with  us;  he  thinks  separation  will  come. 
8tA.  The  Meeting  at  Faneuil  Hall  was  all  we  could  have 
wished;  I  spent  much  time  &  some  money  effecting  it; 
I  am  well  satisfied  I  was  right  in  the  effort.  Dined  at  Mr. 
Paige's  with  Ex  Gov.  Lincoln,  Everett,  Cushing,  N.  Ap- 
pleton,  Rev.  Dr.  Blagden  etc.,  pleasant  party  &  a  good 
dinner;  Some  Rum.  ioM.  Saw  Rev.  Chandler  H.  Robbins 

in  relation  to  Rev. ;  he  thinks  people  have  got  tired 

of  aiding  him,  and  he  has  no  power  to  arrange  for  him- 
self,— sad  case,  well-meaning  man.  I  sent  him  a  Note  say- 
ing it  was  my  intention  to  place  stocks  to  the  value  of 
ten  thousand  dollars  in  trust  for  the  benefit  of  himself  & 
Wife,  the  income  to  be  paid  them  during  their  life  on  my 
pleasure.  15^.  Historical  Society,  a  very  delightful  meet- 
ing, speeches  by  Mr.  Everett  &  others  on  the  Charac- 
ter of  Washington  Irving.  18^.  At  St.  Paul's;  Mr.  John 
Cotton  Smith  preached;  I  feel  much  interest  in  him  & 
family.  2l#.  Susan  Lawrence  with  us,  very  bright  girl.  25^. 
This  day  commences  with  a  bright  sun  and  Clear  cold  at- 
mosphere. When  we  think  of  the  all  Glorious  event  which 
we  this  day  celebrate,  we  are  lost  in  wonder  that  we  can 
hold  our  Peace,  why  are  we  not  shouting  with  Joy  that 
Christ  was  born  to  bring  life  &  immortality  to  light?  His 
teaching  &  example  give  "Peace  on  Earth  &  good  will 
to  men,"  bring  order  out  of  Chaos.  Mrs.  Appleton  much 
distressed  that  she  could  not  be  with  us  at  Church.  I  am 
not  a  little  troubled  by  her  present  illness,  I  fear  it  will 


220  William  Appleton  [1859 

give  her  much  pain.  26/7/.  The  day  is  kept  as  a  holiday. 
We  had  our  children  &  most  of  our  grandchildren  at 
dinner,  &  some  few  in  addition  in  the  evening.  Mrs.  Ap- 
pleton went  to  the  dinner-table,  but  suffered  much  in- 
convenience. 17th.  Mrs.  A.  not  as  well  this  morning. 
Passed  all  the  fore  part  of  the  day  at  Hospital  Life  Ins  Co. 
examining  accounts.  Shall  have  a  nurse  tomorrow;  our 
daughters  &  sons  attentive  to  their  Mother;  Dr.  Jackson 
visited  her,  I  fancy  he  thinks  her  severely  ill.  31^.  The  new 
year  would  begin  with  bright  prospects  but  for  the  present 
alarming  indisposition  of  my  dear  Wife.  Drs.  Jackson  & 
Warren  lead  me  to  think  her  disease  is  on  the  heart  and 
that  it  is  not  probable  that  she  will  again  have  her  health 
but  that  of  a  delicate  invalid;  that  she  may  and  probably 
will  get  up  so  as  to  move  about,  think  she  is  getting  well 
and  then  be  brought  down,  thus  vibrating  but  not  rising 
above  the  disease.  It  is  sad,  very  sad.  I  have  almost  from  the 
commencement  of  our  marriage  life  contemplated  from 
my  Age  &  broken  Constitution  that  when  we  separated  I 
should  be  first  called — (it  may  be  so) — and  from  the  time 
I  was  making  my  first  Will  in  1816  She  was  first  consid- 
ered; I  then  gave  her  the  half  of  the  property  I  might  have, 
and  in  all  the  changes  since  I  have  ever  thought  of  her 
comfort  and  independence  when  I  was  gone  and  provided 
accordingly.  This  is  the  first  serious  illness  she  has  had  dur- 
ing our  married  life  of  forty-five  years  within  a  few  days. 
We,  during  that  period,  have  had  many,  many  blessings. 
We  have  lived  happily  (I  think)  as  the  World  goes,  but 
I  would  not  be  understood  to  say  we  always  thought  alike 


i860]  Diary  221 

and  that  difference  of  opinion  was  always  expressed  in  as 
mild  and  considerate  terms  as  it  should  have  been.  There 
was  never  a  want  of  love,  confidence,  or  respect.  She  always 
leaned  on  me,  I  always  loved  her  dearly  and  never  doubted 
her  affection  for  a  moment;  were  I  to  say  there  was  never 
a  Word  passed  that  was  not  in  harmony,  my  children, 
should  this  come  to  their  eyes,  would  not  give  me  that 
credit  for  sincerity  that  I  wish  from  them.  I  am  writing 
under  a  cloud,  a  depression  of  spirits;  we  may  yet  live 
happily  together  in  health. 


i860 

JANUARY  1".  Our  business,  Wm.Appleton  &  Co.,  for 
three  years  past,  after  deducting  interest,  has  been  so 
near  an  even  one  that  I  offered  to  let  Mr.  Hooper  &  Dex- 
ter take  the  Profit  or  loss;  but  they  declined;  since,  they 
have  offered  to  take  it,  but  I  said  nay;  yet  I  do  not  think 
there  can  be  ten  thousand  Profit  in  all.  My  income  the  past 
year  must  have  been  one  Hundred  Thousand  dollars,  the 
half  at  least  I  expend  &  give.  2nd.  Much  provoked  at  the 
course  taken  in  relation  to  putting  down  the  fare  in  the 
B.  &  P.  R.R.  i8M.  Mrs.  Appleton  to  my  surprise  by  di- 
rection of  Jackson  &  Warren  rode  around  the  Common. 
19^.  Mrs.  A.  did  as  yesterday.  Mrs.  Charles  Amory  gave 
a  fancy  Ball;  Splendid.  28^.  Vestry  meeting  in  relation  to 
selling  St.  Paul's  Church,  I  do  not  like  the  idea  but  stated 
to  the  gentlemen  I  should  not  be  in  the  way  of  their  wishes 
but  should  give  no  time  or  take  part  in  the  enterprise. 


222  William  Appleton  [i860 

FEBRUARY  1  VK  Mrs.  Appleton  down  to  dine.  \$K 
Engaged  with  Mr.  Bartlett  in  relation  to  the  land  in 
the  rear  of  his,1  mine  &  Mr.  Ropes'  Houses. 

MARCH  ofd.  I  rode  with  Mrs.  Appleton  to  Long- 
wood,  the  first  time  she  has  been  there  for  nearly 
three  months;  I  examined  a  site  for  a  house.  yh.  X  rather 
troubles  me;  most  unaccountable  man.  If  one  could  work 
their  way  to  Heaven  by  good  works,  I  should  have  been 
well  on  the  way  for  my  efforts  for  that  family,  but  gener- 
ally, they  have  said  all  &  more  than  I  expected  of  grati- 
tude. bth.  Mrs.  Appleton's  birthday;  drove  around  the 
City;  Miss  Sally  Lawrence  at  dinner.  20th.  Engaged  in 
arranging  Isl  &  Aug*  Thorndike's  business  with  Mr.  Dana 
&  Loring.  26th.  Mrs.  A.  had  a  bad  night.  Called  on  Dr. 
Warren  who  went  to  see  Mrs.  Appleton,  found  her  alarm- 
ingly ill;  Dr.  Jackson  was  with  him  in  consultation  several 
times  in  the  day;  Dr.  Oliver  slept  at  our  house.  28^.  Mrs. 
Appleton  had  comfortable  night;  at  her  request  I  remained 
in  the  chamber  with  her,  she  wished  me  to  tell  her  what  the 
Physicians  said  of  her  illness.  I  gave  her  in  answer  nearly 
Dr.  Jackson's  words,  which  were  in  substance  that  she  was 
on  the  right  road  and  in  a  few  weeks  might  be  as  well  as 
ten  days  since,  then  able  to  drive  &  walk  very  little.  opth. 
How  shall  I  describe  the  scene  of  the  last  evening  which 
brought  to  a  close  the  closest  of  earthly  connections  and 
happiness  of  this  life  between  me  and  the  loved  one  whom 

x93  Beacon  Street. 


i860]  Diary  223 

I  have  cherished  and  have  on  all  important  occasions  been 
supported  by,  for  more  than  forty-five  years.  We  have  had 
more  than  the  usual  blessings  that  fall  to  our  race;  in  the 
eyes  of  the  World  all  we  could  desire.  We  have  had  many 
afflictions,  ten  children  born  to  us ;  six  have  gone  before, 
two  sons  &  two  daughters  leaving  children,  severe  trials 
to  us,  but  we  were  consoled  in  their  religious  characters; 
all,  members  of  our  Church.  In  the  severe  trials  she  shew 
much  more  strength  of  character  than  I  found  in  myself; 
on  trifling  occurences  she  would  show  a  want  of  these 
qualities.  Kind  at  heart,  sincerely  loved  by  those  who  could 
best  judge  of  her,  my  impressions  are  that  she  was,  with- 
out putting  herself  forward  in  society,  uniformly  pleasing 
to  her  contemporaries  &  respected  by  the  younger  portion 
of  the  community.  She  was  a  Communicant  in  the  Epis- 
copal Church  before  we  were  married  and  as  I  think  a 
consistent  Christian.  31^.  I  passed  a  sad  night;  my  nerves 
so  much  disturbed  I  could  not  get  my  sleep  as  usual,  but 
better  than  the  night  before.  Many  friends  called  to  offer 
their  consolation  &  services.  Children  all  attention  to  me. 

A  PRIL  Ist,  Sunday.  I  sent  for  our  children,  we  all  met 
jLjL  together,  Read  the  Good  Book,  and  united  in  Prayer. 
2nd.  This  day  the  remains  of  my  dear  Wife  were  taken  to 
St.  Paul's  Church;  the  funeral  services  read  by  Dr.  Nichol- 
son in  a  subdued  and  most  acceptable  manner  to  a  large 
congregation;  from  there  we  went  to  Mount  Auburn  & 
deposited  the  body  by  the  side  of  my  Mother,  four  of  our 
children  &  two  Grand  children.  4^.  Kind  Children  &  friends 


224  William  Appleton  [i860 

came  to  sympathize  with  me.  "]th.  Recd  many  very  kind 
letters,  among  them  from  Bishop  Potter  &  Dr.  Vinton. 
8M,  Easter  Sunday.  Attended  Church;  sad  not  to  have 
my  dear  Wife  to  go  with  me,  but  God  rules  the  World 
and  all  in  Mercy.  Would  I  could  say  Amen,  in  Truth. 
\oth.  I  have  only  been  out  to  see  Hetty's  Children;  been 
looking  over  Mrs.  Appleton's  papers  &  journal,  sad,  but 
many  marks  of  kindness  &  wisdom,  always  frank  &  hon- 
est. \2th.  Mrs.  Coolidge  &  Mamie  at  dinner.  14A  Mr. 
Coolidge  &  family  have  joined  me ;  I  trust  it  will  prove 
a  pleasant  arrangement;  he  says  &  wrote  me  he  was  dis- 
posed to  come,  yet  it  must  be  a  great  sacrifice  to  him  to 
give  up  their  Establishment;  I  shall  do  all  I  can  to  make 
it  pleasant.  \$th.  At  Church;  Confirmation  by  Bishop:  six- 
teen females,  one  male.  \bth.  Hetty  much  engaged  in  remov- 
ing their  furniture.  17^.  Busy  in  arranging  for  Hetty's 
Household.  19^.  Charles  went  to  reside  at  93  Beacon  St. 
23^.  Randolph  Coolidge  &  Miss  Gardner  called  in  the 
evening,  I  doubt  if  they  are  ever  married. 

MAY  \$*K  Went  to  Brookline  preparing  to  sell 
House.  i8M.  Went  to  Concord  with  Dr.  Shattuck; 
found  Frank  quite  well  &  pleasantly  situated.  24A  The 
House  that  we  resided  in  for  twenty  years  in  Brookline 
I  sold  this  day  for  twenty-three  thousand  dollars;  about 
the  cost  of  the  buildings;  great  changes  have  taken  place 
in  our  family  since  I  built  the  House.  We  had  much 
pleasure  in  the  residence;  I  sold  it  with  many  regrets,  but 
neither  of  my  Children  wished  to  retain  it.  25^.  Went  to 


i860]  Diary  225 

Brookline  to  meet  Mr.  Henry  Upham  who  purchased  my 
House;  he  appears  satisfied  with  the  purchase  but  I  think 
he  made  a  mistake  in  so  doing.  The  three  dear  children 
went  with  me.  30^.  Our  dear  Wm  with  his  family  left  for 
Europe;  I  regret  his  absence,  his  attentions  to  me  have 
been  uniformly  administered,  I  love  him  much. 

JUNE  l*.  I  called  on  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Henry  of  Tennessee, 
took  them  to  ride;  he  made  a  speech  at  the  Union 
Meeting.  2nd.  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Henry  &  son  were  at  dinner; 
good  People,  I  am  much  pleased  with  them.  &th.  Remov- 
ing the  furniture  from  Brookline;  sad  at  the  giving  up  of 
the  place,  but  all  right  13^.  Meeting  directors  Salmon 
Falls  Company. 

JULY  13^.  Accompanied  by  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Lawrence  I 
went  to  their  House  at  Longwood.  16^.  I  have  had  a 
delightful  visit,  Sarah  is  one  of  the  best  of  Wives,  Mothers, 
friends  &  housekeepers;  all  order  &  not  fuss. 

AUGUST  17^.  Returned  from  Boston  to  Newport  with 
b  Sarah's  daughter  Susie,  a  nice  little  girl.  18^.  Very 
quiet,  rode  to  the  village  with  Hetty;  very  pleasant  to  be 
with  the  Children. 

SEPTEMBER  $*  Wrote  Mr.  Grinnell  in  relation  to 
the  approaching  election,  saying:  "Are  the  greatest 
portion  of  our  State,  Abolitionists^  I  think  not.  This  can  be 
tested  &  should  be  by  the  approaching  election  of  Gov- 


226  William  Appleton  [i860 

ernor.  It  will  not  be  an  easy  thing  to  accomplish  but  I  feel 
in  my  bones  it  can  be  done  &  should  be ;  this  in  my  opinion 
depends  on  Gov.  Clifford.  We  can  bring  about  a  union  for 
him,  and  no  other  person;  see  him  &  write  me  his  decision 
at  Boston,  or  come  up,  which  will  be  better.  If  you  do  not 
get  this  in  time  to  write,  Telegraph  me,  54  Beacon  Street, 
yea,  or  nay.  I  go  to  Boston  tomorrow  (Thursday);  shall  be 
there  Friday  &  possibly  Saturday.  I  am  requested  to  go  up 
in  relation  to  raising  funds  for  the  campaign;  I  do  not  intend 
going  into  the  fight  to  be  beaten.  They  say  with  twenty 
thousand  dollars  to  print  and  distribute  documents,  etc.,  etc., 
they  can  carry  the  State.  I  think  it  very  important,  and  as 
at  present  advised,  if  Mr.  C.  will  consent  to  be  a  candidate 
I  will  say  to  the  gentlemen  when  we  meet,  I  will  furnish 
one  fifth  of  the  amount  required,  whether  it  be  twenty  or 
thirty  thousand  dollars.  On  the  decision  of  Mr.  C.  depends 
my  action.  This  note  strictly  private,  except  with  Gov.  Clif- 
ford." 7th.  Recd  letter  from  Mr.  Grinnell;  not  settled  as  to 
Gov.  C.'s  action.  \\th.  Engaged  in  looking  after  my  busi- 
ness affairs  and  Politicks,  dined  at  Mr.  Bartlett's.  At  Mr. 
Everett's  &  Mr.  Winthrop's  in  the  evening.  15^.  Meeting 
in  relation  to  funds  for  Campaign.  It  is  hopeless  the  idea 
of  electing  Bell  &  Everett  party  in  Masstts,  yet  I  rather 
give  money  with  others  than  say  "No."  19^.  I  left  New- 
port at  7  O'C.  with  servants  and  baggage.  Mr.  &  Mrs. 
Coolidge  in  Afternoon:  all  arrived  safe.  22nd.  Mr.  Lyndsay, 
M. P.,  from  London,  Mr.  Hooper  &  Mr.  Sturgis  dined  with 
us.  24A  Meeting  Board  of  Trade.  Mr.  Lyndsay  made 
statements  in  regard  to  Commerce.  26^.  Mr.  Stevenson 


i860]  Diary  227 

&  Bacon  wished  me  to  allow  my  name  to  be  used  as  Can- 
didate for  Congress,  which  I  declined.  27^.  Committee  for 
nominating  me  called  on  me :  I  told  them  I  could  not  ac- 
cept the  nomination  at  this  time,  but  would  consult  with 
my  friends. 

OCTOBER  2nd.  Engaged  in  arranging  for  Charles' 
&  family's  voyage.  yd.  Charles,  wife  &  children  left 
us  for  a  voyage  to  Europe;  I  am  sad  at  their  leaving  me 
but  they  have  my  consent.  bth.  Passed  most  of  the  morn- 
ing in  getting  a  dispute  between  the  Chicopee  Company 
&  the  Banks  arranged.  Mr.  Lodge  &  Ignatius  Sargent 
much  interested;  they  agree  to  refer  it;  I  think  the  Banks 
will  not  recover.  10^.  Went  to  New  Haven  to  attend  Board 
of  Missions.  13^.  Meeting  of  the  directors  of  B.  &  P., 
Worcester  and  Fall  River  &  Old  Colony  Rail  Roads  at 
my  office.  \$th.  The  Standing  Committee  at  my  House 
agreed  to  a  2nd  Parish  in  Cambridge,  contrary  to  my  Judg- 
ment. \bth.  Mr.  Coolidge  returned  from  deer  Killing;  I  am 
glad  to  see  him  home.  lj*K  Prince  of  Wales  arrived;  went 
to  Longwood  to  meet  him.  18^.  Splendid  Ball  for  the 
Prince.  I  went  as  one  of  the  Committee  to  take  him  &  in- 
troduce him  at  the  Ball.  2o/;/.  Appearance  of  storm.  Prince 
left  and  embarked  at  Portland;  all  was  most  fortunate  dur- 
ing his  Visit.  Some  Gentn  were  at  my  house  to  examine  Mr. 
Thorndike's  wine.  24A  We  are  much  interested  in  the 
Approaching  Election.  Mr.  Hillard  of  Alabama  spoke  at 
F.  Hall.  25//z.  At  the  particular  request  I  dined  with  Mr. 
Everett  to  meet  Mr.  Hillard. 


228  William  Appleton  [i860 

NO V E  M B E R  $th.  Very  exciting  day.  At  evening  was 
Complimented  by  a  Torch  Light  Procession,  very 
well  arranged;  I  made  a  short  speech.  The  feeling  of  my 
friends  is  that  I  shall  be  elected  to  Congress.  The  other  side 
is  equally  confident.  I  do  not  think  I  shall  be  elected  nor 
do  I  in  my  heart  wish  it.  6^.  At  three  o'clock  I  went  to 
Vote,  found  the  report  of  chances  in  favour  of  Mr.  Bur- 
lingame.  Mr.  Coolidge  reported  at  four  o'clock  that  as  ad- 
vices were  from  Cambridge  Mr.  B.  must  be  elected.  Went 
with  Hetty  to  Longwood,  told  them  what  we  supposed 
was  the  result  of  the  Election;  I  said  I  was  pleased;  the 
dear  daughters,  Mrs.  Lawrence  &  Coolidge,  said,  "If  you, 
Father,  are  satisfied,  we  are  delighted,  we  never  wished  you 
to  go  again  to  Washington."  On  our  return  we  found  the 
report  was  that  I  was  elected;  and  before  nine  o'clock  our 
street  was  crowded  with  those  who  favoured  my  Election, 
with  musick,  Torch  Light  procession,  etc.,  etc.  Mr.  J.  T. 
Stevenson  addressed  me  from  the  Crowd;  I  made  some 
remarks  &  was  followed  by  Mr.  Hillard  &  several  other 
gentlemen;  the  Crowd  continued  until  near  eleven  o'clock; 
at  Twelve  Gentn  came  &  serenaded  us,  Mr.  Coolidge  gave 
them  some  Wine.  7th.  Much  excitement  in  the  City;  the 
whole  Lincoln  Ticket  in  the  State  elected,  but  in  my  dis- 
trict; and  some  talk  of  questioning  the  correctness  of  that; 
rather  tired,  —  Mr.  Coolidge  done  up.  8^.  Much  pleased  to 
have  my  Grand  Children  with  us  at  dinner,  Copley  &  Eliza 
Greene,  who  returned  yesterday  from  Europe.  Many  letters 
congratulating  me  on  my  Election,  I  wish  I  was  out  of 


i860]  Diary  229 

the  affair;  I  will  make  the  best  of  it.  \2th.  Some  excitement 
by  the  news  from  the  South.  i6M.  Seventy-four  years  Old. 
My  health  as  good  as  most  persons  of  my  age;  I  walk  up 
stairs  as  quick  as  when  much  younger,  my  weight  is  about 
the  same  as  for  twenty-five  years,  not  varying  more  than 
one  or  two  pounds  from  one  hundred;  my  memory  in  most 
things  is  not  to  be  depended  on.  My  opinion  on  business 
subjects  is  considered  as  good  as  formerly.  I  believe  I  am 
much  more  valued  in  the  community  than  I  justly  de- 
serve; my  reputation  as  a  man  of  business  is  high,  but  this 
is  from  success;  I  have  been  fortunate  through  life.  I 
have  had  many  severe  trials,  but  the  death  of  my  dear  wife 
changes  all  my  plans  for  this  existence,  she  is  continually 
in  my  mind;  I  loved  her  much  more  than  I  could  have 
supposed  and  all  my  recollections  of  her  are  most  pleasing. 
My  children  are  all  attention  and  my  interest  in  Mr.  & 
Mrs.  Coolidge  and  our  dear  little  ones,  is  very  great.  My 
home  is  made  all  that  can  be  to  meet  my  comfort.  Dined  at 
Wm's  with  Jefferson,  Hetty,  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Lawrence,  Mary 
Ann,  Sally  and  Mrs.  Burnham  &  Dr.  Vinton,  who  has 
come  to  pass  a  few  days  with  us.  \*]*K  Went  to  Nantas- 
ket  and  to  Minot's  Ledge  light  House  with  Dr.  Vinton, 
Mr.  Coolidge  &  Wm;  very  interesting  day.  20^.  Dinner 
Party  of  twenty  to  those  most  active  in  my  Election  to 
Congress,  consisting  of  Messrs.  Bacon,  Paige,  Stevenson, 
Beebe,  Richardson,  Hallett,  Pierce,  Bush,  Bigelow,  A.  A. 
Lawrence,  James  Lawrence,  making  a  party  of  younger 
men;  quite  pleasant;  remained  at  table  until  ten  O'Clock. 
22"<  Much  Excitement  as  to  our  Banks  suspending  spe- 


230  William  Appleton  [i860 

cie  payment.  25th.  Received  a  letter  from  Gov.  Aiken,  full 
of  Secession.  Things  look  bad  in  S.  Carolina.  27^.  A  din- 
ner party  of  twenty;  all  political  parties;  it  went  off  well. 
Dinner:  Oysters  in  Shell,  Soup,  Fish,  Boiled  Capon  & 
Ham,  Oyster  Pates,  fried  Chicken,  Croquettes,  Sweet 
Bread;  Punch  Frozen,  Game,  Pudding,  Jelly,  Blanc 
Mange  &  Fruit.  29^,  thanksgiving  Day.  No  family  meet- 
ing. These  anniversaries  make  one  sad — the  dear  One 
having  gone.  30^.  Much  talk  as  to  money;  excitement 
continues  without  cause  that  I  can  see. 

DECEMBER  &K  Meeting  at  Mr.  Winthrop's  with 
Mr.  N.  Appleton,  Gov.  Clifford,  Mr.  Grinnell,  &  Mr. 
Silsbee,  in  relation  to  the  State  of  the  Country;  very  de- 
spondent in  their  feelings.  8t/l.  Talk  of  going  to  Washing- 
ton, requested  by  Mr.  Winthrop,  Gov.  Wells  &  Mr.  Ever- 
ett. 10^.  Meeting  of  gentmn  in  relation  to  state  of  Country. 
Present:  Mr.  Everett,  Winthrop,  Benjamin  R.  Curtis,  Sid- 
ney Bartlett,  Beebe,  Haven,  Ticknor,  Tobey,  Paige,  Amos 
A.  Lawrence.  12^.  Left  for  Washington  with  Wm,  Mr. 
Wm  Amory  &  our  servant  George.  13^,  New  York.  Went 
to  the  business  part  of  the  City,  saw  many  persons;  finan- 
cial affairs  in  a  better  state,  but  of  political  subjects  there 
is  great  anxiety,  much  more  than  in  Boston.  In  after- 
noon, went  to  Philadelphia.  Mr.  Read  passed  the  evening 
with  us,  very  much  excited  in  mind;  he  said  he  would  go 
to  Washington.  Called  on  Mr.  Ingersoll  and  found  him 
much  troubled;  all  alarmed.  15^.  In  afternoon,  went  to 
Washington,  at  Willard's,  pleasant  rooms  &  well  situated. 


i860]  Diary  231 

16^.  Recd  many  calls,  all  talking  of  Secession;  there  is 
great  doubt  &  gloom.  Went  to  church,  made  some  calls 
on  Senators,  Lord  Lyons,  Stapleton,  etc.  17^.  Went  to 
the  Senate,  pleased  by  the  kind  reception  from  my  Old 
friends  &  Acquaintances;  dined  at  Mr.  Corcoran's  with 
Lord  Lyons,  Senators  Mason,  Hunter,  Slide  11,  Benjamin  & 
others.  Mr.  Read  arrived  from  Philadelphia.  18^.  Called 
on  President  with  Mr.  Read,  not  much  conversation.  Long 
talks  with  Mr.  Ewing  &  Vinton,  Foster,  Toucey,  Critten- 
den &  others.  19^.  The  President  sent  his  Secretary  to  ask 
me  to  dine ;  I  went;  only  the  Pres*,  Secretary,  Miss  Lane  and 
myself.  He  was  cheerful,  talked  freely  of  the  State  of  affairs; 
I  fancy  he  has  more  hope  than  most;  he  is  quite  deter- 
mined that  if  there  is  aggression  in  South  Carolina,  it  shall 
come  from  them.  He  talked  of  the  state  of  the  Forts  at 
Charleston,  the  only  force  that  could  be  sent  was  at  Nor- 
folk or  Old  Point  Comfort,  the  School  for  Exercise  &  the 
Men  of  War.  He  feels  what  is  said  as  to  not  reinforcing 
the  Forts  at  Charleston;  and  I  could  not  but  think  he  un- 
derstood what  was  to  be  &  might  be  done  to  relieve  the 
garrison  should  there  be  an  attack  or  one  threatened;  he 
said  nothing  that  would  authorize  me  more  than  to  sur- 
mise, probably  without  good  reason,  yet  I  felt  more  com- 
fortable than  from  talking  with  anyone  else.  10th.  Passed 
the  day  as  usual  going  to  the  Capitol,  hearing  various 
opinions,  changing  my  mind  as  to  the  future,  etc.,  etc.  No 
parties  of  any  kind,  all  anxiety  &  gloom  yet  not  with- 
out hope,  but  no  present  light.  21#.  Went  to  the  Senate. 
Mr.  Toombs  took  me  to  the  Committee  room;  we  talked 


232  William  Appleton  [i860 

pleasantly  and  I  could  not  but  feel  that  if  there  was  as 
much  disposition  on  the  part  of  the  Republicans  as  there 
might  be,  as  much  as  on  the  part  of  the  South,  things 
might  be  arranged;  yet  I  do  not  know  what  would  satisfy 
them;  their  troubles  are  not  all  with  the  North;  the  Aboli- 
tionists have  done  much  to  produce  them.  Left  at  evening 
with  Mr.  Read,  passed  pleasant  evening  with  Mr.  Ken- 
nedy; he  is,  like  others,  very  anxious.  24A  Arrived  in  New 
York,  saw  many  business  people,  they  are  much  troubled 
as  to  Political  situation  of  the  Country;  dined  with  Mr. 
John  C.  Green.  25^,  Xmas.  My  dear  children  agreed  with 
me  that  we  should  not  enjoy  our  usual  family  meeting  on 
this  Anniversary  of  my  dear  wife's  &  their  Mother's  alarm- 
ing illness.  I  took  the  cars,  had  a  pleasant  trip  home  in 
eight  &  a  half  Hours  from  New  York.  When  we  reflect, 
and  view  the  present  state  of  this  Country,  but  as  yes- 
terday enjoying  greater  privileges  than  any  nation  of 
ancient  or  modern  times,  apparently  about  to  abandon 
the  Institutions  that  have  made  us,  since  I  was  born,  from 
a  poor  feeble  people  of  three  or  four  Millions  to  one  of 
Thirty,  ranking  among  the  important  Nations  of  the  earth, 
to  throw  ourselves  into  chaos  without  any  real  cause,  we 
must  feel  that  our  Sins  are  such  that  we  must  have  im- 
mediate Chastisement;  we  say  continually,  God  rules  the 
World,  and  all  in  mercy;  I  see  nothing  but  His  power  to 
overrule  the  Wills  of  selfish  wicked  men  that  can  save  us 
from  what  would  appear  the  greatest  calamity  that  could 
come  to  our  Country.  God  preserve  us.  26^.  I  enjoyed 
much  the  meeting  of  my  children  and  their  dear  little  ones; 


1861]  Diary  233 

I  feel  that  my  affections  are  greater  than  formerly,  possi- 
bly from  having  fewer  to  love.  Those  who  have  departed 
are  almost  always  in  my  mind.  I  shall  in  the  course  of 
nature  soon  follow.  29^.  My  cough  troublesome,  applied 
a  mustard  poultice;  bad  night. 

1861 

JANUARY  isf.  Our  political  atmosphere  is  dark,  more 
so  than  at  any  time  within  my  recollection;  Madness 
rules  the  hour.  Our  glorious  Union  is  in  very  great  danger. 
I  returned  the  last  week  from  Washington;  I  could  not 
hear  any  plan  offered  likely  to  unite  the  various  parties; 
Republicans  and  Secessionists,  uncompromising;  the  Presi- 
dent not  in  favour;  I  believe  he  intends  to  do  what  will 
promote  the  continuance  of  the  Union.  My  impression  is 
that  most  of  the  Cotton  States  will  follow  South  Carolina, 
the  Border  Slave  States  will  attempt  to  reconcile  the  diffi- 
culties, but  will  not  easily  succeed;  a  long  time  will  pass, 
much  anxiety  &  distress,  but  eventually  a  new  Confedera- 
tion will  be  formed  or  the  Constitution  Amended;  this  will 
not  be  effected  under  President  Lincoln's  Administration, 
or  my  life.  To  our  family  the  past  has  been  an  eventful 
year :  it  has  pleased  God  to  call  the  Wife  of  my  youth 
the  Mother  of  my  Children  from  this  Earth,  an  event  not 
anticipated  by  me — otherwise,  that  I  should  go  first.  The 
immediate  shock  having  passed,  left  as  I  was  alone,  my 
children  all  seeking  my  happiness  deemed  it  expedient 
that  Mr.  &  Mrs.  Coolidge  with  their  dear  children,  should 


234  William  Appleton  [1861 

remove  to  my  house,  which  has  proved  a  happy  arrange- 
ment for  me,  and  I  trust  for  them;  they  so  appear  to  think 
it.  I  have  been  again  elected  to  Congress;  not  in  concur- 
rence with  my  judgment,  but  I  was  flattered  into  assenting 
that  my  name  should  be  used,  and  much  pleased  by  the 
many,  many  congratulations  on  the  result.  If  I  live  &have 
sufficient  health,  I  shall  undertake  the  responsibilities  which 
I  feel  much,  as  I  am  old,  and  my  faculties  much  impaired. 
The  prospect  for  the  coming  year  for  our  Manufacturers 
is  bad;  if  merchandising  is  bad,  Rail  Road  Stocks  must 
suffer,  rents  will  fall;  all  kinds  of  property  as  a  general  rule 
will  produce  less;  and  should  it  lead  to  reducing  our  ex- 
penses generally,  good  will  follow.  Since  my  return  from 
Washington  I  have  been  mostly  confined  to  the  house  with 
a  severe  cough;  being  withdrawn  from  the  world  I  am  led 
to  reflect  on  myself  &  position.  That  I  should  have  as 
much  reputation  for  talents  as  I  have  at  home  and  abroad 
quite  bewilders  me.  Very  much  flattered  at  Washington, 
I  feel  the  responsibilities.  By  age  &  other  circumstances  I 
am  admonished  my  days  are  numbered  &  few.  \th.  A  Gen- 
eral Fast  has  been  recommended  by  Pres*  of  U.  S.  7th.  Most 
uncomfortable  night  I  have  had,  coughed  by  the  Hour 
during  the  last  night. 

MARCH.  I  am  now  at  the  close  of  March,  having 
been  confined  in  my  House  most  of  the  time  since 
writing  in  this  book.  I  have  had  very  little  to  annoy  me, 
almost  without  pain,  as  much  appetite  as  necessary  for  me 
without  more  exercise,  generally  sleep  well,  sometimes  an- 


1861]  Diary  235 

noyed  by  coughing,  every  possible  attention  from  my  chil- 
dren, &  great  pleasure  in  the  prattle  of  the  dear  grand 
children  belonging  to  our  immediate  family,  &  from  those 
coming  to  visit  us.  I  find  I  cannot  take  the  air  freely  with- 
out bringing  on  the  cough,  and  I  have  nearly  decided  to 
go  to  South  Carolina,  to  leave  the  next  week,  either  in 
the  Steamer  from  this  City  or  N.  York.  My  belief  is  that 
a  change  will  have  a  good  effect  on  my  health,  but  I  still 
think  it  not  important  whether  I  die  in  my  seventy-fifth 
year  or  later.  I  regret  leaving  my  long  tried  friend  Mr. 
N.  Appleton;  my  belief  is  I  shall  find  him  when  I  return 
but  that  is  quite  doubtful.  My  friends  and  Acquaintances 
have  been  very  attentive;  that  I  may  recollect  who  came 
to  see  me  I  have  kept  a  record  in  part,  as  follows :  Mr. 
Sidney  Bartlett,  Judge  Warren,  Mr.  Sears,  Mr.  Whitwell, 
Mr.  N.  Appleton,  Mr.  Winthrop,  Mr.  Brooks,  Mr.  Ever- 
ett, Dr.  Jackson,  Mr.  Edw.  Jackson,  Mr.  Wm  Sohier,  Col. 
Aspinwall,  Dr.  Blagden,  Jonn  Mason,  Dr.  Lawrence,  Dr. 
Nicholson,  Mr.  Timmins,  Bishop  Eastburn,  Rev.  Dr.  Mer- 
cer, James  S.  Amory,  Rev.  Dr.  Mason,  Mr.  T.  C.  Amory, 
Mr.  Israel  Whitney,  Wm  Amory,  Mr.  George  W.  Lyman, 
Mr.  S.  Hooper,  Mr.  Thos.  Motley,  Mr.  Beebe,  Mr.  Sam1 
T.  Dana,   Mr.  F.  Bacon,  Mr.  Sam1   Frothingham,  Mr. 
James  Lawrence,  Mr.  Andrew  T.  Hall,  Mr.  R.  B.  Forbes, 
Mr.  Ticknor,  Mr.  Sam1  Ward,  Mr.  W™  Gray,  Mr.  Sulli- 
van Warren,  Mr.  Jos.  S.  Gardner,  Mr.  Wm  H.  Gardiner, 
Mr.  S.  V.  Ward,  C.  G.  Loring,  Mr.  C.  Amory,  Mr.  W™ 
B.  Reynolds,  Col.  Emery,  Dr.  Lyman,  Mr.  J.  Hall,  Mr. 
J.  Cushing,  Mr.  W™  Sturgis,  Mr.  H.  Shaw,  Mr.  E.  A. 


236  William  Appleton  [1861 

Bourne,  Mr.  Edgar,  Mr.  F.  C.  Lowell,  Mr.  Jos.  Coolidge, 
Pres't  Sparks,  Mr.  Ives,  Mr.  Silsbee,  Mr.  Walley,  Mr. 
Wigglesworth,  Mr.  Hallett,  Mr.  Sargent,  Mr.  Geo.  B.  Dex- 
ter, Gov.1  Wells,  Genl  Pierce,  Mr.  Blake,  Mr.  A.  A.  Law- 
rence, Mr.  Rice,  Mr.  Ritchie,  Mrs.  Sears,  Mrs.  Wormley, 
Mrs.  N.  Amory,  Miss  Amory,  Miss  Dexter,  Mrs.  Brim- 
mer, Mrs.  Howland  Shaw,  Madame  Greene,  Miss  Greene, 
Miss  Bartlett,  Miss  R.  Amory,  Mrs.  Hooper,  Miss 
Hooper,  Miss  Gardner,  Mrs.  Gardner,  Mrs.  J.  S.  Amory, 
Mrs.  Cushing,  Mrs.  Bartlett,  Mrs.  Brooks,  Mrs.  d'Haute- 
ville,  Mrs.  Warren,  Mrs.  S.  Appleton,  Miss  Goodwin, 
Mrs.  Franklin  Dexter,  Mrs.  Mason.  31^,  Easter  Sunday. 
Went  to  St.  Paul's  for  the  first  time  since  the  first  Sunday 
in  December;  I  was  much  pleased  with  the  sermon  and 
musick,  felt  the  solemnity  of  the  Communion.  William  & 
family  as  usual  at  Tea  &  in  the  evening. 

A  PRIL  \th.  Left,  with  Mrs.  Coolidge  and  my  servant 
JT\.  George,  for  a  trip  to  the  South  via  N.  York.  Slept  at 
Springfield;  arrived  at  the  Brevoort  House  at  five  O'clock 
Friday,  Mr.  Amory  came  late  at  night.  6^.  We  expected 
to  have  departed  on  the  steamer  "Nashville"  this  day,  but 
we  are  delayed  without  knowing  the  cause.  J**.  Hetty  & 
her  friend  passed  some  time  with  me.  9^.  At  four  O'clock 
we  went  on  board  the  Steamer  "  Nashville  "  for  Charleston. 
Was  told  the  vessels  that  had  departed  a  few  days  since 
were  bound  to  Charleston  to  reinforce  Fort  Sumter;  we 
doubted  the  fact.  Our  passage  was  rough,  something  of  a 

1  Of  New  Hampshire. 


i86i]  Diary  237 

gale.  Mr.  Amory,  my  good  friend,  in  his  berth;  my  servant 
ill  the  whole  passage;  I  was  among  those  the  most  active 
at  dinner  &  tea.  We  arrived  off  Charleston  Bar  on  Thurs- 
day evening;  the  Steamers "  Atlantic," "Harriet  Lane "  and 
two  armed  Vessels  near  where  we  were  moving  slowly  dur- 
ing the  night,  waiting  the  rise  of  the  tide  that  we  might 
cross  the  Bar.  About  four  o'clock  Friday  morning  we  were 
apprised  by  the  sound  of  Cannon,  that  an  Attack  was  made 
on  Fort  Sumter;  after  some  time  the  fire  was  returned  with 
vigor,  firing  at  Fort  Moultrie  &  again  at  the  Batteries 
on  Morris  Island  &  other  Works.  The  interest  &  excite- 
ment was  great;  every  flash  we  could  see;  then  the  smoke; 
then  followed  the  report;  the  bomb  shells  we  saw  ascend  & 
would  anxiously  watch  whether  they  fell  in  Fort  Sumter, 
from  which  place  no  shells  were  sent,  having  no  mortars. 
The  firing  was  continued  during  Friday  without  any  long 
cessation  from  either  party ;  at  one  time  we  thought  most 
of  the  men  in  the  Fort  must  be  destroyed  by  fire,  but 
again  they  shew  they  were  alive  by  commencing  again 
their  works.  The  firing  stopped  in  the  afternoon  of  Satur- 
day; we  were  compelled  to  remain  outside  the  Bar  until 
Sunday  morning.  On  arriving  in  the  City,  finding  no  one 
killed,  produced  emotions  of  gratitude  in  my  breast  that  I 
have  seldom  or  never  before  felt.  I  went  to  Church;  pleased 
with  the  discourses  &  services.  Mr.  Wm  B.  Pringle  took 
me  to  Church;  made  some  calls,  saw  a  great  collection  of 
Ladies  and  Gentn  on  Bay  Street.  At  the  Hotel  saw  many 
acquaintances,  was  pleasantly  recd;  my  health  much  im- 
proved. Telegraphed  to  our  friends  in  Boston.  Charleston 


238  William  Appleton  [1861 

much  improved  since  I  was  there  in  1843.  lSth-  R°de  to 
the  farms  with  fine  Kitchen  gardens  with  Mrs.  Rose;  Dr. 
Rutledge  &  Lt.  Rutledge  came  in;  much  kind  attention 
from  old  friends.  17^.  Went  to  Fort  Sumter  under  permis- 
sion from  Gen1  Beauregard,  with  the  Mayor,  a  party  not 
to  exceed  twelve;  a  most  awful  wreck;  one  cannot  realize 
that  no  one  should  have  been  killed.  19^.  We  left  by  rail 
for  Adams  Run  where  we  found  carriages  to  take  us  to 
Mr.  Aiken's;  Mr.  Wm  Elliott  &  Mr.  Aiken's  nephew  with 
us,  kindly  received;  took  a  walk  over  the  Plantation,  an 
Island  of  five  thousand  acres;  they  cultivate  rice,  about 
twenty-two  Hundred  Barrels;  seven  to  eight  hundred  ne- 
groes, large  portion  young;  great  care  taken  of  them;  only 
five  white  persons  on  the  Island.  20^.  Rode  with  Mrs. 
Aiken;  Mr.  Amory  and  Mr.  Aiken  walked  most  of  the 
day;  I  was  not  quite  well,  got  some  cold  in  crossing  to  the 
Island.  Sunday  we  rode  to  Edesto  where  there  are  a  col- 
lection of  Houses,  Churches,  etc.,  etc.  22w^.  We  left  our 
kind  friends;  went  to  Mr.  Wm  Elliott's,  Adams  Run;  passed 
the  day;  pleasant  place;  some  company  at  dinner;  very 
kind  family,  early  acquaintances  of  Mrs.  Appleton  &  my- 
self. 23^.  Took  Cars  for  Savannah;  met  Mr.  John  E.Ward 
going  home  from  China.  At  the  depot  George  Appleton 
greeted  us;  found  his  mother  at  the  hotel.  24A  We  went 
&  passed  the  day  with  my  daughter  &  Grandson;  found 
them  pleasantly  situated.  Having  made  an  engagement  to 
go  to  Mr.  Arnold's  Plantation  and  other  arrangements,  we 
concluded  to  give  them  all  up  and  make  our  way  home 
via  Macon,  Atlanta,  Nashville,  Louisville,  Frankfort,  Cin- 


1861]  Diaiy  239 

cinnati,  Columbus,  Pittsburg,  to  PhiR  We  passed  Sunday 
at  Gov.  Bell's,  Nashville.  I  was  most  kindly  entertained 
&  cared  for;  I  needed  such  refreshments  as  I  recd.  Passed 
a  day  at  Cincinnati. 

MAY  5^,  Sunday.  Arrived  at  Philadelphia;  quite 
bright;  dined  at  Mr.  C.  Francis  Fisher's.  6M.  I  find 
myself  with  a  severe  sore  throat  and  cold.  Mr.  Amory 
having  left  me,  I  am  quite  down,  confined  to  the  house. 
8f/l.  Not  any  better;  got  telegraph  Wm  &  Sarah  coming.  ofh. 
Mrs.  Lawrence,  Maria  &  William  Jr.  arrived,  very  glad 
indeed  to  see  them.  14A  Got  home,  right  glad  to  see  my 
dear  children  and  others  I  much  love.  Mr.  N.  Appleton 
better  than  I  expected  to  find  him.  15^.  Much  talk  of  my 
resignation  of  my  seat  in  Congress;  agreed  to  refer  the 
question  to  Drs.  Jackson  &  Warren.  16^.  They  think  I  had 
better  not  go  to  Congress.  18^.  Report  of  Drs.  J.  &  W.  that 
I  may  go  to  Congress  under  restrictions;  I  rather  like  it. 
2iJ/.  Almost  confined  to  the  House  with  pain  in  my  face; 
much  swollen.  TLnd.  Suffered  severely  all  the  last  night 
&  most  of  the  day;  began  poulticing  my  face  hourly  for 
some  twelve  hours  when  relief  was  obtained  by  suppura- 
tion. 23r<  Left  for  New  York  &  slept  at  Brevoort  House. 
l$th.  Arrived  in  Washington;  Mr.  Corcoran  met  me  at  the 
Cars;  pleasantly  situated  with  him.  26^.  At  Dr.  Hall's 
Church;  remained  at  the  Communion;  called  on  Mr.  Sew- 
ard; pleasantly  Recd.  iqth.  Called  at  Navy  Department, 
saw  Secy  etc.,  called  on  Gen1  Totten.  28^.  Made  calls  at 
the  State  &  Treasury  Departments,  rode  to  the  Asylum  for 


240  William  Appleton  [1861 

Insane.  29^.  Went  to  call  on  French  Minister  at  George- 
town, on  the  Russian  &  English  Ministers,  rode  with  Mr. 
Renwick  &  Mr.  C.  to  see  the  Camp  &  Mr.  Corcoran's 
farm.  30^.  Concluded  to  return  to  Boston.  Made  several 
P.  P.  C.'s  &  left  at  6  P.M. 

JULY  \st.  Left  by  seashore  line  for  Washington  with 
Judge  Thomas.  \th.  At  House;  chose  Speaker  &  Clerk; 
I  had  dinner  party  of  our  Representatives,  10  present.  $th. 
Business  at  the  House  not  of  much  interest,  other  than 
Prest>s  Message.  7th.  Very  hot;  most  done  up.  8^.  At  the 
House;  appearances  are  that  the  session  will  not  be  long. 
13^.  At  Committee;  called  on  Mr. Seward  &  Lord  Lyons. 
My  relative,1  whom  I  much  loved,  the  second  daughter  of 
Mr.  N.  Appleton,  was  this  day  interred;  she  endeared  her- 
self to  me  by  her  kind  attention  to  my  dear  Wm  while  on 
his  deathbed  at  Schaffhausen  in  1836.  She  was  a  lovely 
woman,  a  great  favourite;  came  to  her  death  by  her  clothes 
taking  fire  while  sealing  a  letter  or  making  some  seals.  14A 
Went  this  morning  to  Mr.  Stevens,  Chairman  of  the  Com- 
mittee of  Ways  &  Means,  to  get  his  consent  to  telegraph  to 
Boston  &  New  York  that  there  was  no  cause  for  alarm  as  to 
their  goods  in  Bonded  Ware  House;  while  at  the  telegraph 
office,  recd  Telegram  announcing  the  death  of  my  long 
loved  friend  Mr.  N.  Appleton.  I  had  said  I  would  return 
on  his  decease,  but  I  was  told  and  believed  my  duty  was  in 
this  place.  A  bill  for  raising  revenue  was  before  the  Com- 
mittee of  Ways  &  Means;  no  other  Merchant  is  on  the 

1  Mrs.  Henry  W.  Longfellow. 


1861]  Diary  241 

Committee;  I  remained  &  got  for  our  shipping  Merchants 
much  advantage  as  to  when  the  duties  should  take  effect, 
&  on  the  Ware  house  goods ;  I  feared  if  I  left,  it  might  be 
changed  in  the  House  or  Senate.  I  will  not  speak  of  the 
virtues  of  my  dear  departed  friend,  his  character  will  be 
fully  related  by  others;  great  purity  of  heart  he  possessed. 
17th.  Very  busy  with  tariff  Bill,  then  went  to  the  Treasurer 
in  relation  to  his  project  on  wines  &  spirits;  he  said  they 
had  but  imperfect  information;  was  quite  satisfied  with  the 
view  of  Committee  who  sent  me.  18^.  The  bill  for  increas- 
ing Revenue  passed  the  House.  Went  to  see  the  Massa- 
chusetts Troops.  19^.  Much  excitement  as  to  our  troops 
in  Virginia.  20^.  House  not  in  session;  at  Committee.  Din- 
ner at  Mr.  Crittenden's,  with  Sumner  &  the  Committee  of 
Ways  &  Means;  Wilson  was  invited;  good  dinner,  pleas- 
ant party.  2VK  On  leaving  my  bed  I  found  myself  in  pain 
which  was  continuous  through  the  day,  but  not  severe. 
The  Physician  called  three  or  four  times;  ate  nothing,  have 
had  nausea  &  occasional  pains  for  most  of  the  time  since 
I  arrived  in  this  city.  22*4  Slept  the  last  night,  but  find 
myself  quite  weak  this  morning.  We  have  sad  accounts  of 
our  Army,  total  defeat  as  appears  by  report.  I  pass  the  day 
on  the  sophy.  26^.  Dr.  B.  told  me  to  go  home  as  soon  as  I 
could.  30^.  Quite  feeble.  Went  to  the  Committee  room 
and  found  all  present;  stated  to  them  that  I  felt  my  health 
was  failing  and  asked  if  in  their  opinion  there  was  any- 
thing I  could  do  for  my  constituents  that  would  justify 
my  remaining  in  Washington.  Mr.  Stevens  complimented 
me  for  my  usefulness  &  said  the  work  was  done  as  to  the 


242  William  Appleton  [1861 

tariff,  a  Committee  of  Conference  would  do  all;  that  he  be- 
lieved our  bill  would  be  sustained.  They  all  took  me  by 
the  hand  and  said  they  hoped  I  would  return  again  in  De- 
cember, etc.,  etc.;  I  was  most  kindly  rec^  &  treated  by  the 
Committee,  in  fact  by  all.  At  5^  O'C.  left  for  Baltimore. 

A  U GUST  isi '.  Arrived  at  Newport,  found  all  well,  glad 
JTjL  to  be  with  those  I  most  love.  F]th.  Dr.  Dunn  came  to 
see  me  evidently  thinking  I  required  nothing  but  rest; 
there  is  none  with  me;  in  afternoon  much  pain.  Sth.  Re- 
tired at  ten  o'clock  with  a  Jug  of  hot  water  on  my  stom- 
ach. I  got  a  nap  of  an  hour  or  two;  got  up,  took  medicine 
&  went  to  bed  where  I  remained  until  1 1  O'clock;  I  sent 
for  Dr.  Dunn;  told  him  I  needed  active  treatment;  he  con- 
sented to  my  taking  some  magnesia.  \oth.  Rode  morning 
and  evening,  felt  better,  ate  plover,  no  bread  nor  Vege- 
table; I  think  more  exercise  will  benefit  me.  \$th.  Returned 
to  Boston;  slept  at  my  House.  I  eat  less  than  would  be 
thought  possible  and  live.  i8M.  Rode  to  Brookline  in  the 
morning  with  Mrs.  S.  Appleton,  &  to  Dorchester  in  the 
afternoon — much  troubled  with  bird  I  ate  for  dinner.  22nd. 
Good  night,  ate  oatmeal  gruel  &  a  small  chop  for  dinner, 
nothing  else  for  the  day.  25^,  Sunday.  Rode  with  Mrs.  S. 
Appleton.  Miss  Goodwin  read  to  me  from  St.  Paul's  Epis- 
tles &  Jeremy  Taylor.  26^.  Rather  busy  with  Mr.  Finney 
in  making  up  accounts.  30^.  Went  with  Miss  Goodwin  to 
Newport.  Ladies  rode  to  the  Fort,  etc.  31^.  Left  Newport. 
Sarah  met  me  at  my  house  to  take  me  to  Longwood.  I  de- 
clined; she  is  a  good  soul. 


1861]  Diary  243 

SEPTEMBER  2»<  Went  to  prove  the  will  of  my  late 
excellent  friend  Honble  N.  Apple  ton;  bad  night.  4A 
Rode  to  Mr.  Geo.  W.  Lyman's  &  Mrs.  Pratt's;  pleasant 
visits.  Mr.  Dexter  arrived,  very  glad  I  was  to  see  him. 
Many  changes  since  he  left  us  for  China;  he  returned  via 
San  Francisco.  Jtk,  Meeting  of  the  Massachusetts  Delega- 
tion at  State  House  in  relation  to  inspection  of  shoes,  poor 
affair.  17^.  I  think  I  gain  strength  daily.  Mr.  Coolidge  & 
Master  Frank  returned  from  Newport;  fine  Boy.  2oM.  I  find 
the  old  enemy  is  not  subdued;  suffered  from  my  dinner. 
21".  Went  to  the  Office,  Market  &  Life  Office.  At  even- 
ing Mr.  Johnson  and  Bugbee  came  in  to  look  at  plans  for 
the  house. 

OCTOBER  14A  Saw  Mr.  Sears'  Church1  attempted 
to  sell  the  pews;  I  fancy  he  will  not  succeed  in  get- 
ting his  Prayer  book  into  general  use.  22*4  Went  to  see 
Gov.  Washburn  on  Mr.  Hooper's  election.  I  think  he  will 
be  elected.  25th.  Cold;  Ice  on  the  Common,  first  frost  this 
Autumn.  There  is  much  distress  in  our  community  by  the 
news  of  the  Battle  near  to  Arlington  &  the  death  of  many 
of  our  young  men.  28^.  Hetty  &  family  left  us.  Charles 
&  his  family  came  to  our  house  to  reside.  30^.  Made  re- 
turn of  inventory  of  Mr.  N.  Appleton's  estate,  worth  about 
eighteen  Hundred  Thousand  dollars. 


1  In  Longwood ;  over  the  Sears'  family  tomb. 


244  William  Appleton  [1861 

NOVEMBER  3^,  Sunday.  The  last  night  we  had  a 
terrific  storm,  from  the  N.E.;  much  damage  to  ships 
&  many  lives  said  to  be  lost;  13  on  Egg  Rock.  5th.  Elec- 
tion of  Govr  &  other  officers  &  a  successor  to  me  in  Con- 
gress. Mr.  Hooper  was  elected  by  a  large  majority.  6^. 
Went  to  New  Bedford;  could  not  be  more  kindly  received 
than  I  was  by  Mr.  Grinnell.  9^.  Intended  to  return  but 
rain  prevented;  I  am  sure  they  were  pleased  by  the  delay. 
1  \th.  Left  my  kind  friends;  Mrs.  G.  insisted  on  accompany- 
ing me  to  the  Cars  in  the  rain.  \2th.  Went  to  meet  Jack- 
son Directors.  I  do  not  think  our  factory  business  well 
managed,  I  will  sell  the  half  of  my  stock.  Many  calls;  see 
too  many  Persons;  talked  until  ten  O'clock;  went  to  bed 
very  much  exhausted.  16^.  Anniversary  of  my  birthday, 
had  my  children,  Mr.  Dexter  &  Miss  Hatty  Appleton1 
to  dine;  pleasant  dinner,  all  cheerful  and  well.  I  am  very 
doubtful  as  to  my  health,  I  have  some  cough,  my  appe- 
tite and  digestion  good,  and  my  strength  increases.  I  often 
say  it  is  unimportant  to  my  family  &  myself  whether  I 
depart  in  this  or  another  year.  I  doubt  not,  as  the  day  is,  so 
will  be  my  strength;  yet  the  thought  of  immediate  separa- 
tion from  those  I  most  love  gives  a  shock.  i8M.  Went  to 
Longwood  to  make  a  visit  to  my  sister;2  George  with  me; 
find  excellent  rooms  and  all  kindness.  19^.  Wheeler3  came 
&  took  me  to  Boston;  returned  to  dine.  For  a  month  past 

1  Mrs.  Greely  S.  Curtis. 

2  Mrs.  Burnham,  who  lived  on  Mountfort  Street.  The  house  is  still  standing. 
8  His  coachman. 


1861]  Diary  245 

I  have  eaten  no  meat  but  broiled  Pork,  I  prefer  it  to  any- 
thing in  the  way  of  food.  20^.  Ate  pork  for  breakfast  & 
dinner.  iyd.  Masons  have  about  done  their  part  to  the  new 
House,  the  carpenters  commenced  the  roof.  25th.  Troubled 
with  hoarseness  &  some  cough.  27^.  I  called  on  Dr.  Jack- 
son who  told  me  that  he  had  a  consultation  with  Dr.  Warren 
as  to  my  going  to  a  milder  climate;  said  Madeirahe  thought 
best  of;  I  did  not  understand  they  were  quite  settled  as  to 
the  expediency;  I  told  him  I  should  rather  have  the  com- 
forts of  home  to  those  of  a  better  climate  to  live  in  &  much 
prefer  to  die  with  those  I  most  love;  he  said  I  should  be 
advised  by  so  many  to  go  that  I  was  likely  to  change  my 
mind,  but  I  think  he  agrees  with  me,  to  stay  at  home. 

DECEMBER  v*.  Bright  morning;  walked  to  Mr. 
Lawrence's  &  returning  by  Mr.  Binney's  Cottage, 
walking  on  the  grass  covered  with  snow,  fell  &  scratched 
my  face  &  bruised  me  considerably.  2nd.  I  feel  the  fall  of 
yesterday  in  my  side.  \th.  Our  friends  are  very  kind  in  com- 
ing to  see  us ;  Wm  &  wife  walked  to  Longwood.  "]th.  The 
day  promises  well  for  the  men  covering  in  the  new  house.1 
\oth.  Mr.  Faulkner  called  on  his  way  from  Fort  Warren, 
at  my  House;  very  sorry  not  to  see  him.  13^.  Letter  from 
Mr.  Faulkner  &  accounts  (repetition)  of  news  of  capture 
of  Mason  &  Slidell.  \bth.  We  hear  of  the  reception  of  the 
news  of  the  Capture  of  the  "Trent,"  with  Mason  &  Slidell 
on  board.  \"]th.  Much  excitement  in  relation  to  our  affairs 
with  England,  and  to  my  surprise  a  talk  of  Suspending 

1  Prescott  Street,  Longwood. 


246  William  Appleton  [1861 

specie  payments;  unnecessary,  unwise  &  wicked  under  the 
circumstances.  18^.  I  went  before  the  Committee  of  Bos- 
ton Banks;  they  requested  my  view  as  to  suspension,  they 
had  it  freely.  igt/l.  Nothing  important  by  "Juror"  from 
England  but  more  excited.  I  sold  salt  peter  for  sixteen 
cents  this  day  that  I  bought  for  eight  within  sixty  days.  I 
find  my  nervous  system  in  a  bad  state,  I  lay  awake  at  night, 
cannot  keep  awake  in  the  day;  no  anxiety.  20^.  Our 
news  as  to  war  with  England  no  change;  we  shall  avoid 
it,  I  think.  21^.  Had  a  bad  night;  very  little  quiet  sleep. 
I  give  up  tea,  snuff  and  all  my  comforts,  but  my  religion, 
which  I  trust  will  sustain  me  while  I  am  to  sojourn  on  this 
earth.  24/*.  Went  to  the  city  and  bought  some  Turkeys  to 
give  to  those  who  had  not  them.  Xmas,  1861.  The  Chris- 
tian World  celebrates  this  day  as  the  Anniversary  of  the 
birth  of  our  Blessed  Saviour.  When  we  turn  to  the  dis- 
tracted state  of  our  Country;  a  million  of  men  in  arms, 
Brother  against  Brother,  Father  against  Son,  we  pause. 
Does  God  permit  the  wicked,  unruly  passions  of  men  to 
thus  rule  that  some  great  good  may  come?  The  ways  of 
God  are  past  finding  out;  we  must  humbly  do  our  duty, 
and  endeavour  not  to  offend  those  we  call  the  weaker 
brethren;  I  allude  to  the  Republican  Abolitionists;  I  can- 
not doubt  there  are  among  them  honest  men,  but  more 
vile  politicians.  vjth.  The  accounts  from  Washington  are 
alarming  as  to  War  with  England.  28^.  After  dinner  my 
dear  William  brought  me  the  pleasing  tidings  that  the 
"Trent"  affair  was  arranged  &  the  cause  of  War  with  Eng- 
land removed,  which  delights  me  more  than  I  can  express. 


1862]  Diary  247 

29^,  Sunday.  Very  mild,  took  a  long  walk  for  me ;  rode  an 
hour  with  my  sister.  31^.  The  accounts  we  have  from  the 
different  sections  of  the  Country  show  we  do  not  want  War 
with  England. 

1862 

JANUARY  Ist.  The  year  has  been  one  of  the  greatest 
possible  interest  to  almost  all  classes  of  our  community. 
The  War  has  called  for  the  energies  of  the  Country  which 
in  men  &  money  have  been  brought  forward  without  stint, 
nor  has  there  been  shown  an  unwillingness  in  supporting 
the  Administration  by  many  of  us  who  do  not  belong 
to  their  political  party,  or  feel  much  confidence  in  their 
wisdom.  The  Expenses  of  our  Gov1  in  my  opinion  taken 
from  the  1st  May,  1861,  to  May,  1862,  will  be  more  than 
five  hundred  million  of  dollars.  The  great  amount  of  the 
expenditure  is  for  the  pay  &  support  of  the  army  &  navy, 
and  the  large  sums  thus  expended  remain  in  the  Country. 
There  appears  no  distress  among  our  Manufacturers,  some 
of  whom  having  contracts  to  supply  clothing  etc.  for  the 
Government  are  said  to  be  making  large  fortunes,  but 
when  they  close  their  contracts,  the  advance  on  raw  ma- 
terial, and  extension  of  their  works  may  lessen  their  profits; 
our  mechanicks  find  employment  at  near  the  last  year's 
prices,  so  I  find  in  the  payment  of  bills  for  my  house  build- 
ing; what  the  present  new  year  is  to  bring  forth  remains 
to  be  developed.  If  not  interfered  with  by  foreign  govern- 
ments, we  shall  overrun  the  most  valuable  parts  of  the 
Country  occupied  by  the  Confederates  and  they  may  have 


248  William  Appleton  [1862 

to  make  the  best  terms  they  can.  I  regret  to  say  that  the 
passions  of  our  community  are  so  much  excited  that  they 
would,  I  fear,  if  in  their  power,  put  arms  in  the  hands  of 
the  slaves  to  destroy  the  whites;  I  hear  it  said  by  those 
who  on  most  things  would  be  considered  of  fair  under- 
standing. The  Clergy  &  educated  men  not  of  the  very  high- 
est order  compose  this  order  &  a  set  of  noisy,  strong- 
minded  girls  &  boys,  with  a  few  mothers  to  direct  and  give 
much  advice  to  those  who  have  means,  as  to  how  to  use  it. 
I  have  been  particularly  noticed  through  the  newspapers 
for  my  giving  aid  to  the  rebels  by  sending  Wine  etc.  to 
the  prisoners  at  Fort  Warren.  Mr.  Faulkner,  who  was  for 
four  years  in  Congress  with  me,  &  Mr.  Eustis,  son  of 
my  old  friend  Judge  Eustis,  were  those  to  whom  I  gave 
comfort,  which  I  was  willing  to  defend  on  the  basis  of 
Christianity;  common  civility  to  those  not  condemned, 
and  expediency.  Those  who  wrote  that  I  had  better  send 
my  money  to  aid  the  poor  invalid  soldiers  had  not  paid  a 
dollar  for  the  aid  of  the  War,  while  I  paid  thousands.  The 
settlement  of  the  "Trent"  Mason  &  Slidell  affair  relieves 
me  much.  We  are  going  rapidly  into  paper  currency.  Prices 
of  all  kinds  of  stocks  will  advance  materially;  I  cannot 
avoid  taking  an  interest  in  the  prices  and  speculations;  I  am 
endeavouring  to  show  the  younger  part  of  the  Merchants 
that  an  old  man  of  seventy-five  has  energy  left;  at  the  same 
time  I  am  thinking  what  I  shall  do  with  the  profits  on  the 
Salt  Peter  &  Pepper  I  have  bought  &  sold.  I  shall  give  part 
to  the  public  &  the  balance  to  my  distant  relatives.  yd. 
We  have  a  strong  N.W.  wind  and  cold.  Mason,  Slidell  & 


1862]  Diary  249 

Co.  must  have  had  a  bad  time  in  the  gun  boat.  Had  a  very 
kind  letter  from  Eustis;  Mason  and  Slidell  I  did  not  no- 
tice, I  do  not  think  them  honest.  ~]th.  I  am  provoked  at  the 
course  the  Banks  &  Government  are  taking  in  relation  to 
specie.  We  are  likely  to  have  a  bad  currency,  very  likely, 
worse  than  bad.  8tA.  I  have  suffered,  and  have  taken  no 
food  except  tea  or  gruel  for  48  hours.  9^.  Went  to  Boston, 
quite  feeble  and  irritable;  sooner  my  house  is  in  order  the 
better;  my  faith  is  strong  that  I  shall  meet  death  as  I  now 
feel,  without  a  dread.  io//r.  Went  to  the  City;  wrote  my 
cousin  Mrs.  MCM.  that  I  would  aid  her.  Had  a  long  talk 
with  Dr.  Jackson  who  says  I  have  no  disease  to  carry  me 
off  like  Mr.  N.  Appleton,  but  I  am  not  strong"  If  I  cannot 
take  food  I  cannot  gain  strength,  but  he  evidently  thinks 
I  shall  be  out  again  in  summer.  11**.  Mrs.  Dodge  &  Kitty1 
returned  from  Phild,  glad  to  see  them  back.  All  attention 
to  me,  13^.  Mr.  Dexter  writes  me  from  Washington  that 
some  important  movements  are  expected;  they  do  not 
appear  in  full  confidence.  \$th.  Rainstorm;  not  well,  nor 
improving.  Had  a  letter  from  David  Stiles,  my  earliest 
acquaintance  in  Temple,  in  Mr.  Wheeler's2  store  with  me, 
now  poor  but  worthy;  sent  him  money  which  he  uses  ju- 
diciously. 16^.  Rain  ceases  &  all  is  turned  to  ice,  seldom 
better  Sleighing;  went  to  the  City,  at  work  with  Mr.  Hall 
on  my  Trust.  i8M.  Sent  for  Mr.  Bartlett  to  come  &  see  me, 

1  Mrs.  Burnham's  daughter  and  granddaughter  (now  Mrs.  A.  Lawrence  Hop- 
kins). 

2Artemus  Wheeler  "kept  tavern  and  sold  West  India  goods."  Mr.  Appleton 
lived  with  him.  The  house  is  standing  and  is  owned  by  Miss  Bessie  S.  Hayward. 
The  store  has  gone;  it  stood  on  a  part  of  what  is  now  the  village  green. 


250  William  Appleton  [1862 

rode  with  him  to  his  house.  10th.  Storm  continues,  went  to 
City,  but  did  not  get  out  at  our  house.  Quite  feeble ;  mis- 
erable afternoon, — snow,  hail  &  rain.  ivK  No  change  in 
the  weather,  snow,  rain,  hail,  alternately.  22«^.  Went  to  the 
City,  not  long  at  the  Office.  Sold  the  sugar  &  most  of  Salt 
Peter.  lofd.  Mr.  Bartlett  handed  me  Trust  papers,  I  gave 
them  to  Mr.  Hall. 


The  End 

of  the  Seven  Volumes  of  Diaries 


HONORABLE  William  Appleton  died  in  Long- 
wood  at  the  home  of  his  sister,  Mrs.  Burnham,  Feb- 
ruary 15,  1862. 

Three  days  later  "the  funeral  services  were  held  at  St. 
Paul's  (Episcopal)  Church  at  twelve  o'clock,  noon.  A  large 
number  of  the  relatives  and  friends  of  the  deceased,  with 
many  members  of  the  City  Government,  were  present. 
The  remains  .  .  .  were  carried  from  his  late  residence  in 
Beacon  Street  to  the  church  where  they  were  received  by 
the  wardens  and  vestrymen.  . . .  The  solemn  burial  service 
of  the  Episcopal  Church  was  conducted  by  Rev.  Dr.  A.  H. 
Vinton,  Bishop  Potter  of  Pennsylvania,  Rev.  Dr.  Stone  of 
Brookline  and  the  Rector  of  St.  Paul's. 

"After  the  ceremonies  the  body  was  accompanied  to 
Mount  Auburn  by  a  very  large  company  in  carriages.  The 
closing  service  of  the  Episcopal  Church  was  read  at  the 
grave." 


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